April 26, 2019 | Volume XVI, Issue 24

when I moved here in new vendors Let’s talk 2018. For last year’s Why did you decide to co-chair the Pride’s NUTS & BOLTS vendors – Baltimore Pride 2018, vendor committee this year? Carly By Richard Finger experiences Saunders I was co-chair for the I think there are a lot of opportunities As a first time Baltimore Pride vol- Camaraderie with Pride: Logistics Committee, for Pride to get better and bigger each year. unteer myself, I thought it would be on the Richard and this year I’ve switch Attracting more vendors to the event and interesting for our readers to get to Finger: How gears to co-chair the making sure they enjoy their experience is a know some of the other volunteers committee long have you Vendors Committee for way to directly attract more people to Pride! who’ve been working since Novem- been involved a different perspective What are some of the responsibilities ber to put on a fantastic Pride this drives Pride, in Pride plan- on the event. the vendor committee has? Take us be- year. Let’s be honest, for most of says Carly ning? What The Logistics hind the scenes …. us who’ve attended Pride recently are some Committee was re- Leading up to the event we are collect- or in the past, we don’t think about Saunders of the roles sponsible for coordi- ing registrations and coordinating the lo- those giving their time and effort to you’ve had nating volunteers to gistics of sign-in, set-up, and security. This make it happen. One of those volunteers is over the years? assist with setting up year we’ve also engaged more with our Carly Saunders. Carly moved to Baltimore Carly Saunders: I lived and tearing down the vendors leading up to the event with things last year and quickly became involved in the in Louisiana for work in 2017 parade and coordinating with security. The like “Tips to Attract Patrons to Your Booth”. 2018 Pride planning. Besides her volunteer- and joined Baton Rouge Pride to stay con- Vendors Committee is quite different. This What are some the big challenges ing, she’s a foodie and loves travel, music, nected with the local community. I loved it involves communicating with potential ven- you’re facing so far, and how are you and exploring new local artists. so much that I looked to immediately get in- dors and setting up the areas and locations handling them? I recently asked Carly to tell us more volved with the planning for the vendors already registered, and One of the biggest challenges we face about her role and committee in Baltimore communicating to the community to find —continued on page 3

By Frankie Judy Gold Kujawa credit: Eric The comedic genius Korenman Judy Gold of Judy Gold will delight audiences on Glitters at Charm City Synagogue Sunday, May 5th at the Bolton Street Synagogue. Balti- crap in their lives. It’s going to be needed. when I started, I made fun of Reagan, we more OUTloud re- It’s soon after we spent time with our fami- made fun of the first George Bush. Clin- cently chatted with lies for the holidays, which can cause a lot ton and George W. Bush were gold mines. the comedian to dis- of anxiety and stress.” We even made fun of Obama. It’s amazing cuss the inspiration Over the last three decades Gold has how ‘he’ has not only divided the country, behind her material added many titles under her belt. Not only but he divided humor because he can’t and the inequality a stand-up comedian, but as actress, TV take a joke.” Gold added, “When I talk facing female com- writer, and producer. Gold won two Day- about him, which I don’t a lot, I want peo- ics today. time Emmy Awards for her work as a writ- ple to laugh and that’s my ultimate goal. “Since we’re er and producer on the “Rosie O’Donnell So, I try to preface it with, ‘I’m talking about at a synagogue, Show.” She has also been involved in him as a person, not what kind of politics expect some many projects in various roles, including you have. But that’s not what my comedy Jewish jokes,” the TV series “All-American Girl.” centers around. I talk about my kids and Gold laughed. Gold says the political climate today my mother, and all my friends with their “These audienc- makes for odd times for comics. “I don’t fucking food issues, and the LGBTQ comes are going to normally get too political for these types munity. I talk about everyone and how they laugh and let go of events, but I do have to address the get on my nerves.” of all the negative elephant in the room. Going to back from —continued on page 16 Co-Publishers Jim Becker • Jim Williams [email protected]

Executive Editor Jim Becker [email protected] [email protected]

Associate Editor & Director of Marketing & Production Mary Taylor [email protected]

Arts and Entertainment Editor Frankie Kujawa [email protected]

Leather Editor Rodney Burger [email protected]

Contributing Writers for Baltimore OUTloud Andre Shakti • Bill Redmond-Palmer Brynn Devereau • Charles Dudley, MPT Chuck Duncan • David Egan David Placher • Dr. Eva Hersh MD Elyse Buchbinder • Frankie Kujawa Gregg Shapiro • Jabari Lyles Janan Broadbent, Ph. D. • Jeffrey Clagett Josh Buchbinder • Lauren Lynch • Lee Carpenter Linda A. Dominguez, Esq. • Mark S. King Mark Segal • Michael Ritmiller Rabbi Jan Dodi • Richard Finger • Rodney Burger Sage Piper • Steve Charing • Woody Derrick

Contributing Writers for OUT in the VALLEY Asher Kennedy • Brian George Hose Rev. Kelly Crenshaw • Rev. Robert Apgar-Taylor Zed Sykes

Graphics Ramon Montiel

Web Editor Adam Romanik Computer Solutions for Less

Photographers Corey Brent Eric Randolph

National Advertising Rep Rivendell Media 908-232-2021

Founders Jim Becker • Joe Berg • Mike Chase Lee Mooney (1959-2007) • Jim Williams

Baltimore OUTloud PO Box 4887 Baltimore, MD 21211 410-802-1310 Baltimoreoutloud.com

Additional Information Baltimore OUTloud is published every other Friday by Pride Media, Ltd. in Baltimore, Maryland. Readers comments and unsolicited materials are welcomed and may be sent to: [email protected]. All materials appearing in this newspaper are the property of Pride Media, Ltd. and may not be reproduced without the written permission of the editor.

The opinions expressed in Baltimore OUTloud are solely those of the writers unless otherwise indicated and do not necessarily reflect the views of Pride Media, Ltd., and the staff.

2 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD april 26, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com news // local Are you ready to excel in a rapidly growing career? Join our community of talented students, Pride’s NUTS & BOLTS massage therapists, and instructors —continued from page 1 are the restrictions for security reasons on how we can set up vendor spaces. We are working within these guidelines to make Pride a safe event for everyone while still incorporating as many booths as possible. What does success look like for your committee? A successful year would bring back previous vendors, attract new vendors, and build relationships that keep our vendors excited to come back year after year. • ArchitecturAlly-stunning We also look for diversity in content. Hav- wedding venue • ing a strong mix of retailers, non-profit • indOOR & OuTdOOR wedding Become an Allied Health Care Professional in as Little as 11 Months! organization, educational and community resources, and of course … food trucks, CeReMOnieS, ReCePTiOnS, •Small classes with hands-on training •Day, Evening, and Sunday classes And eLOPeMenTS • will hopefully attract more people to attend •Part-time and full-time options •93% pass rate on licensing exam this year’s event! • OveR 30 SAMe-Sex weddingS •Affordable tuition and financing, •Employment assistance upon graduation Anything else you would like us to SinCe 2013 • know about your committee or Balti- including Federal Student Aid more Pride overall? Follow us on Instagram and Facebook at and VA Benefits As a young queer woman, I think it is ChaseCourtWeddingVenue Stay in Touch! extremely important to reach other young 410-727-1112 • chasecourt.com people in the community to get involved! 1112 Saint Paul Street, Baltimore, MD Holistic Massage Training Institute There is no such thing as being too young Owned and Operated by David Egan, 2834 Loch Raven Road. Baltimore, MD 21218 or too old to make a difference. t wedding columnist for BaltimoreOUTloud. 410-243-4688 • MassageTrainingBaltimore.com

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compiled by Jim Becker against PrEP users for reducing condom had been involved in so many fights. “The use.” (Seattle Gay News – Mike Andrew at school didn’t do anything to stop it. They PrEP takers at Sgn.org/sgnnews47_15/page1.cfm) just considered him a troublemaker, and [his mom] was just a pain-in-the-butt parent. risk for STIs but They had already been labeled,” she said. School District spokesperson Lee not for lack of Family says Whack told PGN that he checked with Com- egys and that there were no founded cases condom use 11-year-old’s of bullying that were reported, for either of the Spruill boys. “We take claims of bullying Melbourne, Australia – People on suicide the very seriously. We look into it. We work to PrEP are at risk of acquiring sexually be preventative – specifically to our LGBTQ transmitted infections (STIs), but not be- result of youth,” he said. “Above all of that, the dis- Chelsea Manning cause they’re using condoms less than trict and the Comegys school community those not on PrEP, according to new re- bullying are deeply saddened by the tragedy and Manning is being held in what’s called search. The study, published in the Jour- we never want to see something like this “administrative segregation.” This type of nal of the American Medical Association, Philadelphia – A family in Southwest happen. Young people have challenges and holding can see inmates held in their cells tracked 2,981 gay and bi men in the heav- Philadelphia is mourning the loss of an it’s up to us to do our very best to support “for a maximum of 22 hours a day.” ily populated Australian state of Victoria, in 11-year-old who they say died by suicide af- them.” The family has received an outpour- In 2013, the government convicted which Melbourne is located. ter he and his brother faced constant bullying of support from the LGBTQ community, Manning in a court-martial trial for viola- ing at their school. Phillip Spruill, Jr., a fifth particularly Woody’s and Voyeur Nightclub tions of the Espionage Act when she was grader at Benjamin B. Comegys Elementary, who donated money toward funeral costs. an analyst in the US Army. She disclosed ended his life April 5th in his Bartram Village (Philadelphia Gay News – Josh Middleton over 700,000 military and diplomatic doc- home. Spruill’s grandmother, Linda Lash- at Epgn.com/news/local/14523-bullied-fifth- uments, both classified and unclassified, Smith, 56, told Philadelphia Gay News that grader-takes-own-life) to WikiLeaks. Manning received a 35-year her grandson wasn’t a model student. He prison sentence before President Obama was a fighter. He had been suspended 15 commuted her sentence in 2017. Authori- ties also charged WikiLeaks’ founder, Julia Chelsea Assange, in a separate case that remains under seal. Police arrested him on April The pills didn’t do it – But more STIs with PrEP Manning in jail 11th in London after he lost his asylum at the Ecuadorian Embassy. (Gay Star Researchers found a 20% increase in for refusing to News – Anya Critteton at Gaystarnews. the rates of new STIs among people on a com/article/chelsea-manning-denied-bail- PrEP trial called “PrEPX.” They also found testify jail/#gs.6sqz8r) there was an increased risk of acquiring an STI while on PrEP compared to before Richmond, Virginia – A federal judge starting PrEP. But they found there was Phillip Spruill, Jr. – dead at age 11 in Virginia on April 22nd denied a request no correlation between that increase and times between November and March be- from Chelsea Manning to be released Natural History the rate of condom use among the test cause he was involved in physical alterca- from jail on bail. The judge further upheld subjects. Researchers said they found tions on school grounds – but she said he a lower court’s decision to hold Manning Museum nixes it “surprising” that “condom use was not had to fight to defend himself and his young- in civil contempt for refusing to testify in a significant predictor of acquiring an STI er brother, who was harassed and threat- an investigation about WikiLeaks. Federal event with when using PrEP,” since it goes against ened for being too “effeminate.” judge Claude M. Hilton originally placed common assumptions about the safety of “Phil was overweight and bullied because Manning in custody on March 8th. While Brazilian prez sexual practices. of that on a daily basis, and then he felt that the investigation for which Manning was In trying to explain the greater inci- he had to protect his little brother, because asked to testify remains under seal, she New York City – The Gay and Les- dence of STIs, the study posited that an kids were bullying him about being gay and told reporters outside the courthouse it bian Alliance Against Defamation praised increase in casual sex partners and group calling him that ‘F’ word,’” she said. “Chil- had to do with WikiLeaks. “These secret the American Museum of Natural History sex led to more STI diagnoses. But, the re- dren are cruel. All Phil wanted to do was play proceedings tend to favor the government,” for canceling an upcoming event featuring searchers said, more regular testing asso- and make friends. All they wanted to do was she said before the hearing and her jailing. Brazilian president and anti-LGBTQ ac- ciated with PrEP use also explained the in- make fun of him. He just couldn’t understand “I’m always willing to explain things publicly. tivist Jair Bolsonaro. The announcement crease in STI diagnoses. “It’s important to why, and it hurt him deeply.” She said the I’ve given voluminous testimony; I’ve given came just hours after GLAAD joined en- understand that when people start taking bullying occurred every day and it was con- voluminous information.” vironmental groups in calling on the mu- PrEP, they also get tested more frequently, stant. “It was in school, on the school bus There have been reports that for part of seum to revoke [its] invitation for the Bra- so STIs are more likely to be detected any- and all the way up to his front door, because Manning’s jail time, she has been held in zilian-American Chamber of Commerce’s way,” said lead author and Burnet Institute [the kids all live] in the same complex,” she solitary confinement. Rep. Alexandria Oc- planned gala that [would have] honored graduate student Michael Traeger. The said. “They would chase them and call them asio-Cortez (D-NY) called solitary a form Bolsonaro as its “Person of the Year” at study showed that about 25% of partici- ‘fatty and the faggot.’ … [T]hat’s too much of “torture” and demanded Manning be re- the museum. The museum confirmed [it] pants accounted for a majority of the new for an 11-year-old. That’s too much for an leased on bail. Recently, Democratic presi- canceled the event with an announcement STI diagnoses, and that group of subjects adult,” she said. She said that Spruill’s par- dential hopeful Pete Buttigieg made similar on Twitter. experienced very high rates of STIs. Asso- ents reported the bullying incidents to the comments about the use of solitary con- “The American Museum of Natural ciate Professor Edwina Wright argued that school several times but suggested that they finement in the prison industrial complex. History has done the right thing by de- the findings “are a rebuttal to the backlash weren’t taken seriously because their son According to a screenshot of a statement, clining to host an event that features the

4 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD april 26, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com beyond the beltway anti-LGBTQ President Jair Bolsonaro of massages. For many who attend the ses- Star News – Tom Capon at Gaystarnews. Brazil,” said Sarah Kate Ellis, president sions, it’s the first time they’ve felt a friendly com/article/how-this-cuddle-club-for-gay- and CEO of GLAAD. “His extremist voice touch in years. Meeting Miguel, originally and-bi-men-fights-loneliness-with-intima- has no place at one of New York City’s from Mexico, told Gay Star News, “Being a cy/#gs.6suyi5) most beloved institutions. At GLAAD, we gay man, I noticed the lack of connections I hope the Brazilian-American Chamber of had. We gay men are the worst enemies to Commerce will follow suit and withdraw one another. We are sometimes not so nice their award for an elected leader who is to each other and we don’t connect to each Conservative targeting LGBTQ Brazilians for unequal Cuddly in London other. . . Then add in applications like Grin- treatment under the law.” dr where what is important is how big your Southern The Brazilian president has a horrific cock is, or whether you’re a top or bottom, and barbaric anti-LGBTQ record. Bolson- “So many people feel so comfortable rather than the connections. I started this lawmakers aro said he’d prefer his son die in an ac- with us standing with them when they need as a space where we can connect different- cident than be gay. “I prefer, rather, a son us, but we can’t stand with the transgen- ly – where it doesn’t matter if you’re a top, target sexual run over by a convoy to a homosexual son. der community when they need us?” com- or bottom, or masc or skinny.” If my son were ‘gay,’ he would be dead to mented Hood, a local Black Lives Matter It’s tempting to raise your eyebrows and minorities me.” He supported a father who beat his organizers and former director of Hope dismiss the Gay Cuddle Club as a pretense eight-year-old son to death for showing ef- For Peace and Justice. Referring to re- for an orgy. In fact, in the beginning some Washington, DC – In a bipartisan move feminate traits, suggesting that beating the cent high-profile incident in Deep Ellum in people did – but this is not the environment last month, both the House and Senate intro- child would have prevented him from being which a white man attacked a black wom- Miguel wanted to create. “When I first start- duced the Equality Act, which would provide gay. (Seattle Gay News & GLAAD at Sgn. an, Hood continued, “There were hun- ed, people genuinely thought it would be an nondiscrimination protections for LGBTQ org/sgnnews47_16/page7.cfm) dreds of people in the street [protesting] orgy. I had one person take his penis out people in areas including employment, after that, but nothing now when a black and start wanking,” he said. The idea was housing, credit, education, public spaces trans woman is attacked? We’ve got to do intriguing to see if what Miguel promised is and services, federally funded programs, better.” Hood placed some of the blame for possible – to separate the intimate from the and jury service. The bill was introduced with Police say man what he called “a classic hate crime” on sexual, to have genuine connections with 287 original cosponsors, the most support a “culture of transphobia that has always other people without the phallic sword of ever. But some conservative southern law- who attacked existed” and on “toxic masculinity.” He also Damocles hanging over us. Walking into makers continue to introduce bills that would called the LGBT community to task for clas- a room where people expect to touch you limit the rights of LGBTQ citizens and strip trans woman sism that causes LGBT people with more and be touched by you is a weird thing. The local governments from offering protection privilege to ignore attacks on LGBT people session began with us walking – in any to them. was paid to do it of color and poor LGBT people.” (Dallas direction – through the room, a soothing “Right now, more than a third of LGBTQ Voice – Tammye Nash at Dallasvoice.com/ playlist singing unobtrusively in the back- people in the US call the South their home, Dallas – Dallas police investigators update-arrest-made-in-attack-on-trans- ground. Bodies weaved through each other. but no southern state has passed statewide are now saying that Edward Thomas, the woman-rally-planned) No one touched at this point. People only protections from anti-LGBTQ discrimina- 29-year-old man arrested April 14th in looked. Then Miguel asked us to stop and tion,” Rev. Jasmine Beach-Ferrara, the ex- connection with an assault on trans wom- close our eyes. He told us to find the center ecutive director of the North Carolina-based an Muhlaysia Booker, was paid $200 by of the room, and stop when we touch bod- Campaign for Southern Equality, recently someone in the crowd to attack Booker, Fighting ies. A pause, followed by a few apprehen- told NBC News. In Florida, Tennessee, and according to a report by CBS DFW, Chan- sive steps. Miguel’s calm voice guided us Texas, legislatures are currently considering nel 11. Police arrested Thomas in connec- isolation in the through each step, deep and ethereal. The measures that would weaken LGBTQ pro- tion with the aggravated assault on Booker Gay Cuddle Club breaks through this sen- tections. on April 12th, at an apartment complex in London Cuddle sibility. It’s not that intimacy and sexuality Tennessee, lawmakers are currently con- South Dallas. Police have also tagged the are separate; they are eternally entwined, sidering six anti-LGBTQ bills, described as a attack as a hate crime. CBS reports that Club existing on a spectrum. We need both, just “slate of hate” by LGBTQ rights advocates. In Booker suffered a concussion, fractured not always in their extremes. . . We are the Florida, House Bill 3, sponsored by Repub- wrists and other injuries. London, England – In a firsthand ac- solution to our loneliness problem. (Gay lican Rep. Michael Grant of Port Charlotte, The report indicates that Booker, 23, count Tom Capon raises the question in would block local laws banning discrimina- accidentally backed into another car at the Gay Star News why so many gay men who tion on the basis of sexual orientation or complex, and was then held at gunpoint by live in cities feel lonely? It’s a clichéd con- gender identity. Jacksonville’s Coalition For the driver of the other car, who wouldn’t cept, really: being surrounded by people Equality has named Florida as a national let her leave until she paid for the damage. and yet feeling distant. Huge tower blocks These news notes have been compiled, leader in nondiscrimination laws passed at A crowd gathered around them and some- filled with other human beings and no one with permission, from the online version the local level, with 33 counties and cities one in the crowd offered Thomas $200 to makes eye-contact, no one says hello. The of various newspapers and other web in the state offering civil rights protections attack Booker. Video shows Thomas and only touch you feel is the angry weight of sites. We thank these publications for on the basis of sexual orientation and gen- other men punching and kicking Booker as another person on the tube. In London, one allowing us to bring you their news sto- der identity. However, some North Carolina she lays on the ground, with a large crowd of the biggest and loneliest cities on Earth, ries. Usually the reports have been sig- lawmakers are taking a stand against an- standing around watching until several there’s one small club tackling this problem nificantly edited and you can read the ti-LGBTQ discrimination. Last month, Dem- women step in and drag Booker to safety. for gay and bisexual men. full story by going to the web site men- ocratic state lawmakers introduced three Police are said to be looking for another Miguel Chavez, 43, started the Gay tioned following the item. Comments bills that would expand LGBTQ rights. t attacker who allegedly stomped Booker’s Cuddle Club to reconnect the city’s disaf- are strictly the opinions of Jim Becker (Q Notes Online – Jeffrey Byers at Go- head, and reports on social media sug- fected men to the concept of intimacy. It’s and not of Baltimore OUTloud or Pride qnotes.com/62682/conservative-south- gest that at least one attacker used brass a two-hour long session of meditation and Media. ern-law-makers-target-lgbtq-protections) knuckles on Booker during the assault. controlled touching, including cuddling and

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD april 26, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 5 VoiceVoice ofof thethe CenterCenter be interviewed. • New Bylaws to be voted on in Board Meeting Minutes April after the Board has had 03/07/2019 VI. Further new/old business a chance to review it. • Bret has moved to change • Board minutes to be shared I. Call to order with Mimi to help announce the name the meeting to 7pm. Everyone with the ED regularly in order change and the logo change through has voted to change the meet- to share with the public. Board Members Present larger media contacts. ing time to 7pm Merrick Moses – President IV. Nondisclosure agreement VII. Closing Kenneth Moore – Vice President Discussion was had to have an NDA • Merrick has moved to meet in The meeting adjourned at 08:04PM John Harris - Treasurer in place and for everyone to sign it, person on a quarterly basis in Agenda Items for April 4th Meeting: Jumel Howard – Member at Large everyone agrees to have one. A fur- order to have open meetings · Vote on Ethics Policy Bret Dorsey – Member at Large ther discussion was in place to bring quarterly. A debate has started · Vote on Bylaws Mimi Demissew – Executive Director up a conduct policy, conflict of inter- to decide whether or not to · Vote on Conducts policy Board Members Absent est, and ethics policy. The board will have quarterly meetings. A · Vote on NDA Ava Pipitone- Secretary review the existing ethics policy and motion has entered the floor · Vote on Conflict of Interest II. ED Report vote on the new Ethics Policy at the to have face to face regular April Meeting. Jumel and Merrick to meetings and quarterly public ED report read and accepted as is. find board training through Maryland meetings. A new motion to nonprofits. have quarterly public meet- III. Pride Logo V. Potential new board member ings and closed face to face The Pride Center draft 4 was selected interviews meetings has passed. as the new logo. Kenneth will meet New members have been identified to

GLCCB Calendar of Events Queer Money LIVE! with the Debt Free Guys 6:00 PM May 21 Family Game Night 6:30 PM Free & Confidential Testing at the Center 2:00 PM May 1 Sistahs of Pride 7:00 PM SILhouette 7:30 PM Interview and Resume Skill Building Workshop 12:00 PM (Session I) HIV/STI Testing with STAR TRACK 6:30 PM May 10 May 22 The Mankind Project 7 :00 PM Breaking Bread Project6:30 PM Vogue Night with STAR TRACK 6:30 PM TransBaltimore 7:00 PM Marijuana Anonymous 7:00 PM The Mankind Project 7:00 PM Sexual Compulsives Anonymous 7:00 PM Sexual Compulsives Anonymous 7:00 PM May 11 Interview and Resume Skill Building Workshop 6:00 PM (Session II) Alcoholics Anonymous 6:00 PM May 23 Free & Confidential Testing at the Center 2:00 PM May 2 May 12 Helping Hands Clothing Closet 3:00 PM Free & Confidential Testing at the Center 2:00 PM Narcotics Anonymous 11:00 AM Sistahs of Pride 7:00 PM Youth Against Oppression 4:30 PM Gentle Mindful Yoga3:30 PM SOGAA Book Club 7:30 PM May 3 May 14 Giovanni’s Room Open Mic 7:00 PM Free Legal Clinic with MVLS 1:00 PM May 24 Pay-What-You-Can Chair Massages at the Center 12:00 PM Marijuana Anonymous 7:00 PM Free & Confidential Testing at the Center 2:00 PM Breaking Bread Project 6:30 PM May 4 Dudley Physical Therapy Information Session5:00 PM Alcoholics Anonymous 6:00 PM Teen Art Group 5:30 PM May 25 Civic Engagement Series: Kelly Cross6:00 PM Alcoholics Anonymous 6:00 PM May 5 Narcotics Anonymous 11:00 AM May 16 May 26 Gentle Mindful Yoga 3:30 PM National Honor Our LGBT Elders Day Narcotics Anonymous 11:00 AM Free & Confidential Testing at the Center 2:00 PM Gentle Mindful Yoga 3:30 PM May 6 Youth Against Oppression 4:30 PM May 28 Elder Coffee Hour 12:00 PM Baltimore Trans-Masculine Alliance 6:30 PM Free & Confidential Testing at the Center 2:00 PM May 7 May 17 New Volunteer Orientation 6:30 PM Free & Confidential Testing at the Center 2:00 PM Young & the Restless YA Group6:00 PM May 29 Teen Art Group 5:30 PM Marijuana Anonymous 7:00 PM Giovanni’s Room Poetry Workshop 6:30 PM The Mankind Project 7:00 PM SILhouette 7:30 PM May 18 Sexual Compulsives Anonymous 7:00 PM Queer Families Potluck11:00 AM May 30 May 8 Alcoholics Anonymous6:00 PM Free & Confidential Testing at the Center 2:00 PM Sexual and Gender Minority (SGM) Job Fair12:00 PM Mother Helena Hologram’s Pre-Pride Fashion Show 7:00 PM Baltimore Pride Volunteer Training6:00 PM May 31 Family Matters (Group for Parents)6:00 PM May 19 Marijuana Anonymous 7:00 PM Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence 6:30 PM Narcotics Anonymous 11:00 AM Gentle Mindful Yoga 3:30 PM May 9 Coming Out Support Group5:00 PM Free & Confidential Testing at the Center 2:00 PM

6 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD april 26, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com THE LATEST UPDATES FROM THE GAY, LESBIAN, BISEXUAL, AND TRANSGENDER COMMUNITY CENTER OF BALTIMORE AND CENTRAL MARYLAND

The Pride Center of Maryland Will Host a Job Fair for Sexual and Gender Minorities

Baltimore, MD, Tuesday, April 12, sistance and professional devel- 2019— During a time when spaces opment programs, assistance with designated for sexual and gender obtaining insurance, access to edu- minorities are rapidly disappearing, cation programs, legal-aid and oth- in Baltimore and across the coun- er services that help to ensure sex- try, The Pride Center of Maryland ual and gender minorities are able will begin construction of a 5-story to live healthy and productive lives. community center that will serve Some of the programs to be offered as a safe space for this population will include support for families, in the city’s Charles North and Old recovery services for people who Goucher Neighborhoods. The ini- deal with addictions, afterschool tial funding, a $500,000 bond bill, programs for youth, and a variety of was solicited by The Center’s Ex- evening programs for older adults. ecutive Director—Mimi Demissew on March 9, 2019 at the General The Pride Center of Maryland, for- Assembly in Annapolis, MD. The merly known as the Gay and Lesbi- bond bill was supported by Del. an Community Center of Baltimore, Maggie McIntosh and Sen. Mary mission is to be a catalyst for unit- Washington. ing and empowering sexual and gender minorities in Baltimore and Following the passage of the bond Central Maryland and advocate for bill, Executive Director Mimi De- a better quality of life for the entire missew stated, “Having an actu- community. The center provides al space that belongs to the Pride several educational and supportive Center of Maryland is imperative services, case management, and to ensuring Maryland’s sexual and community events for sexual and gender minority community will al- gender minorities in Baltimore and ways have a space to call our own.” Central Maryland.

The planned project will create For more information contact Sean a 5-story mixed use commercial Smith, Communications Specialist building with 2 floors dedicated to at: Email: ssmith@pridecentermd. LGBT and community services. org, Cell: (804)258-0643 or Office: The other floors will provide low (410) 777-8145 x205. cost, new office space that will be available for business owners to rent. Additionally, there will be retail space on the first floor and shared common areas that can be used by community members. Some of the wrap around services that will be provided include case management, housing navigation, linkage to medical care, employment as-

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD april 26, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 7 Miss Gay Maryland 2019 Photos by Eric Randolph

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BALTIMORE OUTLOUD april 26, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 9 quality of life // Health and Wellness

suggestions as to what this is and what I can minute or two, I where my urine sprays in do about it? am able to uri- two or more directions. It BMI 33 nate again, a ends up on the wall or the small amount. floor. What could be caus- Dear 33, What is causing ing this and what can I Open Wide What may be happening is that some this? Should I be do? ask Dr Eva urine is flowing backward into your vagina concerned? Messy Dr Eva Hersh while you are urinating because there is not Repeater enough room for it to flow out between your Dear Messy, thighs. That’s why, even though you correct- Dear Repeater, This is happening ly feel that your bladder is empty, when you The answer to because you have a Embarrassing stand up the small amount of urine which this question de- blockage in the ure- If urine has become trapped in your vagina leaks pends on whether trouble, don’t thra, the tube that Urinary out. This can be solved by making sure to your urinary anat- hesitate to get drains urine out of the hold your thighs widely open while you are omy is male or fe- help! bladder. This can happen Problems urinating. This keeps urine from flowing into male. in both sexes but is much the vagina. This problem is not always due If you have a prostate gland, by far the more common in people with male anat- Dear Dr. Eva, to weight. It can happen to any most likely explanation at age 58 is that your omy, who have a much longer urethra. It I am an overweight woman A tale of drips, woman who holds her legs too prostate is enlarged and blocking your ure- can be caused by anything which creates in my 30s. I’m having a problem close together while peeing. thra, the tube that drains urine out of the a partial blockage in the urethra. Common- where, even though I feel like split streams, However it is often related to bladder. In this situation, your bladder cannot ly this is due to scarring or inflammation I have completely emptied my weight in that the larger a per- empty completely. To see if this is happening, from a current or past infection or to scar- bladder on the toilet, when I stand and leaks son’s thighs, the farther apart your doctor can order a sonogram to mea- ring from a prior surgical procedure like up, I often briefly leak a little bit. she has to keep them to prevent sure how much urine is left in your bladder cystoscopy, in which a lighted tube (cysto- When I asked my doctor about this, she just urine backflow into the vagina. after you have emptied it as much as you scope) is inserted through the urethra into told me to lose weight. I am so tired of ev- can. If your prostate is enlarged, there may erything being blamed on my weight, I didn’t Dear Dr. Eva, be urine remaining in the bladder after you “Prostate enlargement pursue the conversation with her any more. I am 58 and have developed a strange have tried to empty it. Whether treatment is How does it make sense for this to be relat- new problem. When I urinate, I feel like I am needed depends on how much urine is re- can be serious because ed to my weight? Do you have any practical completely emptying my bladder, but if I wait a tained (this amount is called “post-void resid- ual”) and whether you have had urinary infec- when the bladder tions. Prostate enlargement can be serious doesn’t fully empty, because when the bladder doesn’t fully empty, the retained urine can become infected and the retained urine can this can lead to sepsis, a whole-body infection also called blood poisoning. Sepsis can be become infected and deadly. If you have this problem the treatment this can lead to sepsis, is surgical, a trans urethral resection of the prostate, or TURP. The medical name for en- a whole-body infection larged prostate is benign prostatic hypertrophy or BPH. BPH is not related to prostate cancer, also called blood they are two completely different conditions. poisoning. Sepsis can If you do not have a prostate – that is, if you are a woman or a transman with XX sex be dead ly.” chromosomes – the problem is a different one and not as serious. In XX people, the the bladder to examine it. More rarely, the most likely cause of double urination is poor obstruction can be due to a small kidney muscle tone in the bladder. This occurs with stone stuck in the urethra. Scarring can getting older. You have less bladder muscle also result from inserting objects into the tone when your bladder is full (big), and bet- urethra for sexual pleasure. This is done ter muscle tone when the bladder is closer using medical equipment called sounds April 27th 9 p.m. - 2 a.m. to empty (small). After you urinate the first and is referred to as sounding. Dj Captain Joe time, your bladder is smaller allowing the The treatment for urethral blockage de- muscles to contract better and push out the pends on the condition. If there is a current MIXER’S UNDERWEAR PARTY small remaining amount of urine. This condi- infection, sometimes treating the infection May 3rd tion does not usually require medical treat- will take care of the problem. If there is ment unless you develop urinary tract infec- scarring in the urethra, this is treated by tions. In that case, if the problem does not dilating (opening up) the urethra. This is #KIKI: Dance Party go away after the infection has been treated done with the patient under anesthesia. If with antibiotics, medications can be tried to there is a stone, it often can be washed out and Drag Show improve bladder muscle tone. by drinking large amounts of water. If that does not work, the stone must be surgical- 10 PM – 1:30 AM Dear Dr. Eva, ly removed with a cystoscope. t I have developed this weird condition

10 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD april 26, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com quality of life // Health and Wellness Upcoming workshop to offer LGBT elders amazing sex with people who are maybe The In 60%, 75%, or 90% aligned with our de- Tips for Aging in Place sires, and honestly, that’s the dream right and there. Looking for someone who you’re By Aaron Cahall • Move kitchen items to lower shelves 100% aligned with is only going to set you Chase Brexton Health Care in the cabinets. Out up for failure. Getting older can bring plenty of challeng- • Consider moving the bedroom to the Andre Shakti You also have to approach sexual de- es, but some of the most immediate may lie first floor. sire as though it’s on a vast – and constant- within the walls of your own home. Ensuring • Financially plan for housing repairs ly evolving – spectrum. Our desires (and your home is set up to meet your changing such as roof replacement, electrical work, libido) are going to ebb, flow, and change needs can seem intimidating and pricey – or plumbing. Infatuated But over our lifetime, and that’s perfectly natu- but it doesn’t have to be. How does your program help elders ral. Just because your boyfriend isn’t into An upcoming Lunch & Learn workshop age in place and connect them with Sexually at Odds giving blowjobs now doesn’t mean he’ll al- hosted by the LGBT Health Resource Cen- needed resources? ways be averse to them. ter on Thursday, May 9th from noon to 1:30 Felicia: Housing Upgrades to Benefit Dear Andre, Finally, while I fully endorse sexual pm will present tips on easy, affordable Seniors offers application assistance ser- I’m a gay guy in my early 20s and I’m chemistry as being one of the most im- upgrades to make your home safer, and vices to older adults in Baltimore City to super infatuated with my new boyfriend. portant indicators of long-term relationship on financial resources to assist with more help them gain access to programs that The only issue is, he’s not into giving success, I also believe that enthusiastic significant upgrades. The session will be offer home repairs and falls prevention blowjobs. Receiving oral sex consent is essential to a presented by Molly Wisniewski, manag- services, allowing them to has always been a massive When do healthy sexual relation- er of Civic Works’ Housing age in their com- turn-on for me; I’ve never had ship. If we’re performing Upgrades to Bene- munities safely. Af- a relationship without it. So far, disagreements certain sex acts reluctant- fit Seniors (HUBS) ter being referred I’ve been just fine giving him ly, out of a feeling of guilt program, and Felicia and completing blowjobs without them being in bed warrant or obligation to our partner, Gross, Civic Works a phone screen- reciprocated, but some of my that calls the consensual community social ing through our friends are telling me to dump a break? nature of the situation into work manager. intake line, each him. They’re convinced that in question. At the very least, We asked Mol- client is paired 2019 there’s no excuse to not it can build resentment and ly and Felicia for a with a HUBS work- be giving equal time and pleasure to your sour the relationship. Also, I don’t know preview of just a few er based on the partner. What do you think? Is my boy- about you, but when I’m craving a particu- of the tips they’ll be neighborhood they friend being unreasonable, or is his resis- lar kind of sexual connection, my partner’s sharing during the tance totally acceptable? excitement and active engagement are workshop. live in, who can Hawthorne R. just as critical to me enjoying the experi- What issues do offer case man- ence as the sex act itself! LGBT elders in par- agement services In short, Hawthorne, it sounds as ticular face when try- and provide infor- Dear Hawthorne, ing to age in place? mation and refer- Growth is a funny thing. I’ve though you were pretty Molly: The HUBS rals based on the been doing this “sage internet satisfied with your client’s needs. advice” thing for a long time now, sexual relationship program does not re- Special challenges quest clients to report whether That worker helps advocate and if this question had come with your boyfriend faced by LGBT for the client throughout the across my lap, say, five years before your friends they are LGBT, or are living in elders living in an LGBT household. However, process until their needs are ago, I would likely have taken pointed out the per- we understand that there are shoes will be met. the opportunity to wax poetic ceived inequality. specific barriers that many LGBT covered at a later What is a simple im- on how you can’t have truly While I’m sure their elders face particularly as it re- Lunch & Learn provement tip that readers egalitarian sex without a strict hearts are in the right lates to housing. The long-term can make today? quid pro quo agreement. For- place, this is one in- effects of a lifetime of discrimination deeply Felicia: One simple improvement tip tunately for you, I’m no lon- stance where I’d cau- impacts the housing situations of LGBT el- that readers can make today would be ger that same columnist! tion you against their ders, and often requires increased reliance to become knowledgeable about steps to If we could minutely advice. Keep on fucking on legal programs. Our partners at Project take in maintaining your home to prevent control for every detail of your boyfriend’s brains Household and Senior Legal Aid are trained any major repair needs in the future. This our lives, we’d undoubted- out, and if you ever reach and equipped to work through many of can include regularly cleaning the gutters ly only partner with people a point where you authen- these issues. As well, we work with a num- on your home, having your boiler or fur- who had precise sexual tically feel as though the ber of family caregivers and understand nace serviced annually, and addressing compatibility with us (in- lack of reciprocated blow- that an LGBT elder’s caregiving family may minor repairs when they are brought to cluding a supernatural jobs are negatively impact- not be directly related to the client. your awareness, or by having insurance ability to read our minds ing your relationship, don’t What are some easy fixes or improve- or savings in place to address any home so that they know what hesitate to initiate a conver- ments that elders can make? maintenance or repair needs that come up we want without us ever sation with your boyfriend Molly: Here are a few easy fixes that over time. t having to ask for it). Un- about it. Talking frankly and elders can make to their home to ensure To register for the upcoming Lunch & fortunately, that’s not a reality credit: frequently about the sex we home safety: Learn Session, RSVP to lgbt@chasebrex- of the human experience. Even GayStuffStudio have – and want to have – is the • Increase lighting and increase seating ton.org or call 410-837-2050 extension if we’re practicing monogamy, most powerful thing we could do to in the home. 1049. For more on the LGBT Health Re- we have to accept that no sin- advocate for our own pleasure, and • Declutter walkways and ensure all source Center’s older adult programming, gle person can be everything to another we are all deserving of pleasure! t carpet or rugs are flush with the floor. visit ChaseBrexton.org/LGBTelders. person. We can – and regularly do – have BALTIMORE OUTLOUD april 26, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 11 Quality of life // did you know!? 2019-20 ON Take My Emotional Support Choral Arts ANTHONY BLAKE CLARK Music Director Flamingo to Alexander’s Guesthouse? The flamingo probably kept roaming By Kevin Assam around trying to be everyone’s emotion- T UR! “Game of Thrones.” Celebrity sightings. al support animal. You have to keep all Emotional support flamingos! Laura Zequei- emotional support animals with you at all COME AND SING WITH US! ra-Smith is 2019 Innkeeper of the Year and times, hence it being support. Join Baltimore Choral Arts in the general manager of the award-winning I’ve accidentally locked myself out our 54th year as we chart thrilling Alexander’s Guesthouse in the thick of Key of my room after sunbathing nude on sonic voyages through music West. Let’s rummage through her experi- the deck. What’s the procedure here to across the world. ences for advice on some truly pressing alert staff without violating the cloth- guest matters. ing-only rules of the resort? Auditions for Baltimore Choral Arts’ Kevin Assam: My employee contract Pull a leaf off of a tree and make your says no sleeping with guests. But what if 2019-20 Season are Wednesday, way to the front desk. I slept with a friend of a guest behind the I’m designing the uniforms for our May 15 and Thursday, May 16 starting at Cuban food truck? Is that permissible? new guesthouse and am worried that 6:30 pm at Grace United Methodist Church, Laura Zequeira-Smith: As fun as that if I go with all white it won’t match the 5407 N Charles St, Baltimore, MD 21210. sounds, we do not want our employees act- color of my employees’ souls – black. Prepared repertoire is not required for ing promiscuously with any guests or friends Help! these 10-minute auditions. of guests. This is in keeping with the reputa- They all found Jesus so it’s a new day. tion of the guesthouse as an upscale estab- White it is! For more information on scheduling an audition, lishment, but also protecting our em- Should I be offended that my local visit www.BaltimoreChoralArts.org or call You won’t want to miss the ployees from sexual harassment. Audience Development Manager, Karena Ingram at opportunity to sing in this bagel shop – and the lox is incredible 410.523.7070 ext 306. exciting season! I’m a straight male but – only flies the pride flag during pride have the impression that a as opposed to year round? The own- gay guesthouse is going to ers are uber lesbians. be more “loose” with roman- Flying a flag is not the only way to tic and sexy escapades. Is show pride. It’s all in how they this true? conduct business – equality, MAY 22 - JULY 28 While some places may kindness, and a welcoming be geared towards being a attitude to all. Attraction little more sexually charged, Al- versus promotion. exander’s is not. It is a mixed en- It’s my first time vironment, which seems to reduce the at a gay guesthouse sexual aspect and increase the friendship since coming out. and community building aspect. At the guest- How many leather house we nurture a friendly welcoming envi- panties and rainbow ronment. This also sets the tone for being a pasties do I need to pack? place where friends meet friends. Will the concierge have a I’m fairly certain my partner is hav- robust reserve? ing an affair with a boy toy while on While it is not required of vacation. He came home smelling like course, these items definitely Axe body spray. Axe! He’s not a help one make more friends! frat boy. How can I enlist the front The front desk can certainly desk agent where we’re staying to send you in the right direc- 410-730-8311 do some detective work? tion. Do you prefer leather or glitter? TobysDinnerTheatre.com Since we could be thrown in jail for giv- I’m a member of a cult for equality. ing away private info, whatever we know We routinely contact famously dead Due to the nature of theatrical bookings, all shows and dates are subject to change. we take to the grave. LGBTQ personalities via séances. My husband injured his back trying What’s the typical policy for conducting to reenact a raunchy scene from “Game this type of thing in my hotel room? of Thrones.” He can no longer accom- We’d like to join in! Just be sure to pany us to our prepaid get away. Should “sage” after. I go alone or work with the guesthouse I’ve spotted Sam Smith and a few to recoup the costs? other non-binary celebrities hanging by We are always happy to work with you, the pool at my guest house. What’s the but remember winter is coming and you etiquette on asking celebrities to auto- may want to get the vacation in. graph my chest? My emotional support animal is All we ask is that you keep it above the a flamingo but the staff at the guest waist. We would ask all guests to give celeb- AUGUST 1 - SEPTEMBER 8 house keep giving dirty looks and dirti- rities or any guest for that matter their space. er glassware. What gives? Everyone needs a chance to relax. t 12 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD april 26, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com SPIRITUAL DIRECTORY Baltimore Ethical Society Govans Presbyterian Church 306 W Franklin Street, #102 5828 York Road. Worship Baltimore, MD 21201 Baltimore MD 21212 Sunday, 11a.m. 410-581-2322. baltimoreethicalsociety.org 410-435-9188. govanspres.org Christian Bolton Street Synagogue Interfaith Fairness Education Classes 212 West Coldspring Lane Coalition of MD Sunday, 9:45 a.m. Baltimore, MD 21210 P.O. Box 13132 410-235-5354. boltonstreet.org Baltimore MD 21203 browndowntown.org 410-233-5555. ifcmd.org 1316 Park Ave., Balt., MD, 21217 Brown Memorial Park Avenue 410.523.1542 Presbyterian Church MCC of Baltimore 1316 Park Avenue 405 West Monument Street. Baltimore MD 21217 Baltimore MD 21201 410-523-1542. browndowntown.org 410-669-6222 mccbaltimore.org Chevrei Tzedek Congregation Chevrei Tzedek Congregation 3101 Fallstaff Road Memorial Episcopal Church 3101 Fallstaﬀ Road, Baltimore MD 21209 1407 Bolton Street Baltimore, MD 21209 443-992-7485. chevreitzedek.org Baltimore MD 21217 410-669-0220 [email protected] Congregation Beit Tikvah memorialepiscopal.org www.chevreitzedek.org 5802 Roland Avenue (443) 992-7485 Baltimore MD 21210 New Light MCC 410-464-9402. beittikvah.org 40 W. Church Street RABBI RORY KATZ Hagerstown MD 21740 Emmanuel Episcopal Church 301-797-5698 JTS Gladstein Fellow 811 Cathedral Street newlightmcc.com Baltimore, MD 21201 An informal, Welcoming, Participatory, Conservative Jewish Community 410-685-1130. emmanueldowntown.org The Church of the Advent 1301 South Charles Street First and Franklin Street. Baltimore, MD 21230 Presbyterian Church 410-539-7804 210 W. Madison Street advent-baltimore.org 䄀䰀䰀䄀刀䔀圀䔀䰀䌀伀䴀䔀 Baltimore MD 21201-4693 410-728-5545. firstfranklin.org Veritas United Church 䴀愀猀猀匀挀栀攀搀甀氀攀 of Christ 匀愀琀甀爀搀愀礀㔀㨀㌀瀀⸀洀 First Unitarian Church of Baltimore 22 N Mulberry Street., Suite 113 匀甀渀搀愀礀㤀愀⸀洀⸀Ⰰ ㄀㨀㐀㔀愀⸀洀⸀Ⰰ ㄀㈀㨀㄀㔀瀀⸀洀 1 West Hamilton Street. Hagerstown, MD 21740 刀攀挀漀渀挀椀氀椀愀琀椀漀渀椀猀愀瘀愀椀氀愀戀氀攀匀愀琀甀爀搀愀礀猀愀琀㐀㨀㌀瀀⸀洀⸀ 琀漀㔀瀀⸀洀⸀ Baltimore MD 21201 240- 310-6891 410-685-2330. firstunitarian.net veritashagerstown.com 䌀漀渀琀愀挀琀匀琀⸀ 䈀攀爀渀愀搀攀琀琀攀倀愀爀椀猀栀 Grace United Methodist Church 䐀攀愀挀漀渀䘀爀攀搀倀愀猀猀愀甀攀爀㠀㄀匀琀攀瘀攀渀猀漀渀刀漀愀搀 5407 North Charles Street 匀攀瘀攀爀渀Ⰰ 䴀愀爀礀氀愀渀搀㈀㄀㄀㐀㐀ⴀ㈀㈀㤀㤀 Baltimore, MD 21210 倀愀爀椀猀栀䄀搀洀椀渀椀猀琀爀愀琀漀爀 410-433-6650. graceunitedmethodist.org 㐀㄀ ⴀ㤀㘀㤀ⴀ㈀㜀㠀㌀㐀㄀ ⴀ㤀㘀㤀ⴀ㈀㜀㠀㌀

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BALTIMORE OUTLOUD april 26, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 13 Lively Arts // out on stage Catching Up with Doug Topical, Heartfelt: New mind. One was to give our com- Yeakey Co-creator of the munity a great show that they Season at Center Stage could participate in, and the sec- By Frankie Kujawa Baltimore Drag ond was to do something good. By Frankie Kujawa Men on Boats (running As explained in Baltimore Showdown EC Pops has always believed Baltimore Center Stage recent- New artistic from November 29th to De- OUTloud’s previous article in “doing good.” In Ellicott City, ly announced its exhilarating director makes cember 22nd) is a rollicking a few weeks ago, EC Pops we partnered with Blossoms season of Mainstage plays to adventure that tells a hilari- in Fells Point has partnered with Moby’s of Hope to raise almost $6,000. Here we mark the debut programming her mark: a chat ous, true(ish) history of the (721 South Broadway, Fells Point) to host are raising money for Moveable Feast and under Artistic Director Steph- Grand Canyon. Audiences the Baltimore Drag Showdown. This unique FreeState Justice. At each performance, anie Ybarra. The 58th season with Stephanie tag along on a journey that competition features 12 talented Baltimore 15% of the bar proceeds is donated to these includes the directorial debut of Ybarra throws the history book – and drag performers taking to the stage to com- two charities. Broadway and screen star Taye all the men inside it – out the pete for the chance to win a grand prize of The showdown seems to be a suc- Diggs with Thoughts of a Colored Man by window in this subversive retelling of the $2,000. The brainchild of cess. What’s the Keenan Scott II; a fresh take on the immor- one-armed explorer John Powell and his ex- the owners of EC Pops – response been tal play The Bacchae by Euripides; topical ploration of the American West. Doug Yeakey and Lance like from the com- themes in a contemporary musical by Qui- The classic world of “Dick and Jane” is Sovine – the two wanted munity? ara Alegría Hudes and Erin McKeown’s Miss beginning to fracture in Richard & Jane & to do something to help The response You Like Hell; a dramatic comedy about fam- Dick & Sally. Running from February 6th to bring community, camara- has been great! ily dynamics in Richard & Jane & Dick & Sal- March 1st, 2020, the story is a witty and raw derie, and competition to People who have ly by Noah Diaz; hilarity through a retelling of look into one dysfunctional and dissembling Baltimore. With their next attended have the exploration of the Grand Canyon in Men family. Followed up by Where We Stand event scheduled for Tues- been coming back on Boats by Jacklyn Backhaus; and a play (running April 2nd to April 26th, 2020), this day, May 7th at Moby’s, to see the following that tackles a community’s complicity in its brand-new fable of penance is filled with Baltimore OUTloud re- shows. Our host- own struggles in Donnetta Lavinia humor, heart, and music. cently chatted with Yeakey ess, Bambi Galore, Grays’ Where We Stand. When a town is running low about the competition. and the performers Artistic Director Stephanie Yba- on compassion and a man is Frankie Kujawa: So have been doing a rra recently chatted with Baltimore stripped of companionship, what is the “Baltimore great job of enter- OUTloud. “This upcoming season just one kind stranger can Drag Showdown”? taining the crowd. – the first that I’ve programmed at tip the scales. Audiences will Doug Yeakey: It’s a Plus, we think that Center Stage – is a rollicking and join in as one storyteller spins contest to showcase the once people know heartfelt adventure from theatre’s a supernatural tale of lone- great talent in the Baltimore drag communi- that they are doing good for the charities, newest voices back to its roots, up- liness seduced by kindness ty. At each performance, there is a winning that gives them a further incentive to come holding theatre’s original promise to and asking “What do we owe queen and then the bottom two must then back. catalyze conversation and facilitate each other?” lip-sync for their life. Tips determine who You’ve partnered with Moby’s for this reflection. Each show engages with Center Stage’s 2019- wins and which queens are in last place. event. What’s that like being partnered today’s most pressing civic ques- 2020 season comes to an It’s a 16-week competition with performanc- and being neighbors with your business- tions with unapologetically theatri- end with The Bacchae (run- es every other Tuesday evening. The fina- es so close? cal style, and most importantly, with ning from April 30th to May le is going to June 4th where the winning Moby’s is a great partner! The entire loads of joy. I believe this season 24th, 2020). This is not your queen will be awarded the title, crown, and team from the owners George and Pete to brings stories, both old and new, English teacher’s Greek a $2,000 prize. the bar staff and door staff are super. Plus, that resonate deeply.” tragedy. Dionysus is totally What was your inspiration for creat- it helps to strengthen the community when Everyone has baggage in over your drama, and he’s t ing such an event? businesses work to help each other. Miss You Like Hell, running from going to incite the women of We created the event with two things in Learn more at Bit.ly/2IC3UOv. September 12th to October 13th. This timely the land to raise some hell in the greatest mother-daughter musical is about escaping party in recorded history. Closing the season and belonging. Join Olivia and her mother with a political exclamation point from the on their cross-country road trip. Mothers may birthplace of democracy, The Bacchae hits Hearts and Ears Inc. teach you where you come from, but they can the Mainstage at the same moment the na- LGBTQIA+ Wellness & Recovery Center be the trickiest things. tion surges into its primary elections. Directed by renowned artist Taye Diggs “Audiences can expect to experience and written by Keenan Scott II, Thoughts of warm and joyful stories that represent the Hearts & Ears, Inc. is a non-profit organization for Gay, a Colored Man (running October 10th to No- broadest scope of humanity – across axes of Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex and vember 10th) blends language, music, and race, gender, sexuality, and more – from some dance. Welcome to the vibrant inner life of of the most exciting and talented artists in to- Questioning, and Gender Non-Conforming individuals being black, proud, and thriving in the 21st day’s theatre scene,” says Ybarra. “We hope with behavioral health issues and concerns. century. Set over a single day, this richly the- audiences will join us in laughter and contem- atrical mosaic goes beyond the rhythms of plation as they discover the work on our stages the basketball court and the boisterousness and that they will join us too in conversation 611 Park Avenue Suite A, Baltimore, Maryland 21201 • 410-523-1694 of the barbershop to shed brilliant light into through the robust slate of civic engagement t [email protected] • heartsandears.org the hearts and minds of a community of men activities accompanying our shows.” searching for their most triumphant selves. For more info, visit Centerstage.org. 14 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD april 26, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com Lively Arts // out on stage Stomp Makes Noise at DC’s National Theatre By Brynn Devereaux from each other,” he says. When asked his favorite part of perform- For those that are unfamiliar with ing in Stomp, Cary Lamb, Jr., says that it’s Stomp, be prepared for an exciting show. all about connection. “It is this opportunity “Stomp is a show based on a simple idea. to be all of yourself,” says Lamb. “A lot of This show is older than me, and I’m happy times, we have to shut off certain parts of to be a part of the history. It started from ourselves and awaken others. On stage, drumming in the streets to performing for everything is alive. When you look at the everyone and making people happy,” says audience and see someone connect- Lamb. “Sit back, relax, and have a ing, it’s so awesome.” good time. Young kids to seniors Lamb is one performer in the will leave feeling energized and a eight-member troupe that per- jolt of electricity.” forms in Stomp. Using uncon- Stomp will be performed at ventional percussion items like the National Theatre from April matchboxes, garbage cans, 26th to 28th. Show times include Zippo lighters, and more, the Friday and Saturday evening at performers use rhythm to tell their 8 pm, Saturday and Sunday mat- story. “Everyone has a different inees at 2 pm, and Sunday eve- character that they have to ning at 7:30. For ticket informa- embody. I’ve been with the tion, visit TheNationalDC. company for two years com or call the box office as Particle Man. He’s at 800-514-3849. t a shape maker of the Cary show and does his Lamb, Jr. part like everyone else,” says Lamb. Created by Luke Cresswell and Steve McNicholas, Stomp has performed in over ANDRE SHAKTI 50 countries and in front of 24 million people. Since its debut in 1991, the show has won and been nominated for multiple awards on stage and Acclaimed screen in- percussion cluding winning an Olivi- extravaganza er Award and Sex, four Emmy Intimacy and runs April 26th to nominations. 28th It has made Relationship Coaching multiple nota- for Every Body ble television appearances such as the London 2012 Olympic games closing ceremony and “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.” • Culturally Competent For Lamb, it is exciting to be involved with Stomp. “I saw the show when I was • Accessible eight years old. I see the show, and it’s • Emotionally Intuitive still as electric as when I first saw it,” he relates. In addition to Stomp, he has tap danced for the New York Mets and has been recognized by artists such as Missy Elliot and Chance the Rapper. This unique Cell: 856-906-0526 dancing background is useful for perform- (text or call) ing in Stomp and allows him to collaborate IAmPoly.net/Coaching with fellow members. “I’m always thinking spatially. Other performers are coming for More Information from drumming backgrounds, and we learn

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD april 26, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 15 Lively Arts // out on screen The Curse of La Llorona by Chuck Duncan Judy Gold With the recent Pet Sematary remake offering little in the way of fright or originality, a new hor- is All Wet Glitters at Charm City Synagogue ror movie has come along that has the prom- “Conjuring Universe” movie, it definitely is tied ise of some good quality scares coming from to the franchise through one specific charac- the producers of “The Conjuring Universe” ... ter. This movie is sort of like how Shazam is —continued from page 1 ‘Funny Females.’ But when there’s a show even though The Curse of La Llorona is not set in a world where the Justice League ex- When asked where she draws her in- with three guys it’s considered a comedy being billed as another chapter ists, but he’ll never really be spiration from, Gold replied, “The truth! show. So, I believe that until that chang- in that popular franchise. a part of the DCEU proper. It’s just like Joan Rivers used to say, ‘I say es there will be no equality. Also, if you go The story begins in 1673 A boy gives mom It’s doubtful that La Llorona what everyone’s thinking but afraid to say.’ back, look at the female comics and what Mexico, where a woman, her a necklace, and will figure into other “Conjur- I like to think I’m carrying that torch for her.” they wore. It was sort of androgynist, dark husband, and two boys are ing Universe” films. Gold continued, “As comics, we are social clothes. It was all because we knew it was enjoying an outing. One of the the next thing you First-time feature direc- commentators. We notice everything. It’s a spoken-word art form and to not have ev- boys gives mom a necklace tor Michael Chaves handles not a mistake – it’s called a punch line. eryone just look at us and judge off that. and the next thing you know know she drowns the early parts of the film You have to be really self-aware to allow So, if you really dressed up sexy, the wom- she’s drowning both of her very well, giving us some yourself to be disarmed to enjoy comedy. en hated you and the men would want to sons, weeping at the realiza- both her sons. nice visual scares but per- The comic is controlling everything – con- fuck you. So, it was a double-edged sword. tion of what she’s done (al- haps is a little heavy-handed trolling your emotions and getting all the Now you see women look sexy and talk though where the husband is Then things go with the loud musical cues attention in the room. It’s about letting go about whatever they want.” at this point is unclear) before to make us jump (some- and seeing the humor in things. The fun, “Look at the topics now,” Gold contin- she drowns herself. In 1973, downhill. thing that concerns, as he’s the hypocrisy – there’s just so much to ued, “Look at pioneers like Sophie Tuck- social worker Anna Tate-Gar- listed as the director for The laugh at. Instead, now, we get caught up er and Jean Carroll. Their themes were cia (Linda Cardellini) is called to check up Conjuring 3, a franchise that has let its visuals in, ‘This is offensive’ or ‘That’s offensive’ in self-deprecating, domestic-type content. on one of her clients whose two boys have do all the work to scare us). But the film com- this PC-culture. Sometimes, even, instead Look at early Joan Rivers! If you go back not been to school recently. Finding the boys pletely falls apart once the character of Rafael of people getting truly of- and listen, a lot of those locked in a closet, Anna assumes the mom, Olvera is brought into the picture. Rafael is fended, now people are of- female comics were Patricia, has been drinking and abusing the a sort of shaman recommended to Anna by fended by proxy. They just pushing boundaries. children despite her pleas that she’s only try- Fa- ther Perez, who may be able to help hear a word and react with, Think of all the shit Joan ing to protect them. The boys are taken with her alleged supernatural problem ‘I’m not listening anymore!’ got through her career. into care but disappear from the more directly than the church can. We have to get back to not Would any guy get that facility that night, and then their The problem with Rafael is that ac- taking ourselves so fuck- amount of shit?” bodies are found on the banks tor Raymond Cruz gives him zero ing seriously. We are only Gold’s conversation of the river that runs through personality, often sounding like he’s here for a short while and changed towards a book Los Angeles. Anna’s own kids simply reading his lines from the we need to fucking laugh. she is currently working are waiting in the car, but her son script. Even when he tries to bring Laughter is a uniter.” on. “I’m writing this book Chris (Roman Christou) sneaks a little humor to the dire situation, Gold started her career about being a comic away to see what’s happening and his delivery is flat and his perfor- in the male-dominated field during these times and encounters a crying woman whose mance even begins to have an of comedy, in an era when female comics censorship. I spent my entire adult life fight- touch burns his skin. After that, all effect on Cardellini’s, where in didn’t have many opportunities. She being for equality. I started working very early bets are off when Anna visits Patri- their later scenes together she lieved that, though the playing field has working and volunteering for the first AIDS cia in jail and learns that she’s been also just sounds like she’s saying her changed, it’s still not equal for female com- Walk, the California AIDSRide, and would praying for La Llorona, the vengeful lines (and as much as I love her, she is a terri- ics today. “It’s harder for women in every perform as well. Now, I find, our community spirit who took her boys, would take Anna’s ble screamer ... and she has to scream a lot in profession except probably teaching, nurs- is bickering from within. As someone who children to bring her own back. Within the this movie). This performance just ruined the ing, and being a flight attendant – those has spent the past three decades trying to frightening legend, the battle lines are set. film for me. assumed female careers. But, compared find a cure for AIDS, family equality, gays The Curse of La Llorona, or “the crying The La Llorona character is frightening to when I started, it has improved. When I being able to adopt children, trans rights, woman,” starts out pretty strongly. You prob- enough to send shivers up and down your started, we were at the point where I would I’m glad that people can be who they are, ably wouldn’t know it was set in 1973 without spine although her appearance seems to call clubs and be like, ‘Hi, I’m Judy Gold. but many have to learn just how to be in the the on screen text, but there is definitely a rea- change from time to time, from a horrifying I’ve worked here, here, and here.’ Many world. I feel there are a lot of young people son for the time period. Linda Cardellini gives special effect (or someone in a nice makeup) clubs would reply, ‘Yeah Judy, we had a who are saying, ‘The world needs to adjust a nice performance as the overworked single to a not so scary spirit when played by the woman here a couple of months ago and to me’ instead of saying ‘How can I just be mom (her police officer husband was recently actress from the opening in white face paint didn’t do well. So we’re not hiring women in this world? How can I change this world? killed in the line of duty), and Roman Chris- and yellow contacts (the black tears are a comics at this time.’ Even then you would How can I work with the other people in tou is especially good as her son in his first nice touch though). never have more than one woman on a this world?’ That’s why coming out is so major on screen role. Jaynee-Lynne Kinchen As far as horror movies go, The Curse of show. If there was a woman there was only important. That’s when attitudes change. as daughter Samantha doesn’t fare as well, as La Llorona has a few good scares and some one. It was the same with African -Ameri- The micro-managing of our identifies and she mostly is tasked with staring into space. really intense moments with children in dan- cans during this time, too.” who has it harder doesn’t get us anywhere. But early on, the film really delivers some good ger (perhaps a traumatic trigger for some, so Gold continued, “It’s just incredible that Let’s just take a step back and realize that jump scares that, at one point, almost caused take note), but one bad performance nearly if there was a show with a lot of women, we area all fighting the same fight, and that me to drop my popcorn. And that 1973 set- drags the entire film down. Not great, but still and it’s true to this day, they would bill it there’s powers in numbers.” t ting is explained as well. While not billed as a a bit more scary than Pet Sematary. t as ‘Ladies Night Out’ or ‘Her-sterical’ or 16 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD april 26, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com Lively Arts // BETWEEN THE COVERS

effectively conjures exander’s Choice, the webs of friendship, saying it “smacks Dashing Don, Saucy rivalry, and crushes of delusional in- among the boys, who nermost fantasies range from about ages 13 to 18. Their transposed into at Charm City Synagogue of his legendary namesake relationships are set against the solic- a novel’s form.” conqueror) have inflamed itous backdrop of their teaching mas- But maybe, rath- Schoolboy the boy’s erotic imagination, ters and house mothers – usually the er, both works are by George Williard and he’s more than up to boys’ socioeconomic inferiors – who emblems of a new What happens when a teenage schoolboy taking his friendship with Julian to a new aim to guide their charges into the fir- maturity in han- at England’s storied Eton College grows en- level. In a tragicomedy of ill-luck and ado- mament of UK’s upper crust while not dling homosexu- thralled with a dashing young teacher fresh lescent awkwardness, however, lip and cup unduly risking their own careers. ality, welcoming out of Oxford? For the rest of the story, read (or rather, cock and bum) fail to connect. When the pseudonymous Mar- same-sex eros Edmund Marlowe’s pot-boiling novel Alex- Meanwhile, after he hands in a su- lowe’s book first came out, it made sans the burden of ander’s Choice (available on Amazon). perb short story for a splash in the gay identity. Eton has produced 19 British prime min- homework, Alexander A torrid gay romance British press. Eton One of the fas- isters and writers such as Orwell, Shelly, catches the eye as looms large on the cinating highlights and Huxley. With their privileged all-male in- well of a new English set in 1980s Eton domestic landscape, and of Marlowe’s novel is the evidence it mus- mates scaling adolescent hormonal peaks, beak (“teacher” in the author’s knowledge ters that public acceptance of gays has the likes of Eton or Harrow – England’s Etonion patois), Damian Cavendish, fresh of the school’s Delphic Mysteries left no actually reduced the chances for males to great public schools (that would be “private out of university, who invites his star stu- doubt he was a graduate. “The 422-page share intimacy. At one point, Julian gets schools” in Americanese) – have long been dent, quite innocently, for extra tuition in potboiler is being hailed as the Etonian to read the “House Books” – write-ups hothouses of homoerotics, tolerance of his lodgings. version of Fifty Shades of Grey,” gushed for posterity by the class captain of every which has waned and waxed along the de- Both teacher Damian and student Al- the UK Daily Mail, which went on to quote boy in his house. The House Books, going cades and centuries. Still, the teacher-stu- exander come to their eventual entangle- writer (and Old Etonian) Guy Walters, “It back centuries, are off-limits even at Eton, dent dalliance at the center of Alexander’s ment from prior hetero experience or fan- paints an incredibly racy picture of gay sex except to members of the “Library,” a tiny Choice would have raised eyebrows and tasy. Suddenly alive to the joys of sex after at Eton. Put it another way: it’s really dirty.” elect in each class. Julian finds – and pre- wagged tongues probably at any point over his first orgasm, Alexander starts thinking A blogger at the London Review of Books sumably Marlowe has done homework only Eton’s half-millenium. Amidst the anti-sex about the rarest commodity at Eton: girls. praised the novel, noting “the sex scenes an Old Etonian can do – that up until the hysteria of Margaret Thatcher’s 1983, how- “He longed more than anything to see a are thrillingly frank. And there’s fun to be mid-70s, the books were filled with gossip ever, the year Marlowe’s novel unfolds, the naked one, or just a picture of one....” Da- had ... in ‘trying to identify who the people about which boys were in love (or rutting) ramifications of forbidden love soon ripple mian’s virginity was in the book might be in real life.’” with whom, and which were the hottest far beyond school gates, magnified through lost at Oxford with White collars, Like the surprising art house hit Call numbers. warped lenses of the characters’ class striv- co-ed Dashka, who but a taste for sin Me By Your Name, Alexander’s Marlowe’s account jives with what a ings, self-doubts, and ideological zealotry. becomes his Choice celebrates British man, who finished prep school in At the novel’s center male homosexuality 1969, told me. It was his last year, and he is Alexander Aymler, a 13 as a chocolate nut was a prefect overseeing a dorm of new year old just starting at Eton, cluster fully capable boys. At the start of term, at lights out, the blessed with a solid family of sharing the Whit- usual game of musical beds began – boys (dad’s a judge), keen wits, man’s Sampler with tucking in with their favorites for sex and so- a sensitive character, and heterosexuality’s lace – just as he remembered from his own dashing blond looks. His sex- strawberry crèmes. cohort a few years prior. Then in the dark ual awakening comes with his Such admixture is one boy suddenly called out, “Stop it! That’s first orgasm, from self-plea- certainly how ho- gay.” And there was no more nighttime sex suring under the covers in his mosexuality has play in that dorm again. dorm room, leading to a “a thrived under radar Social movements are not ends in spasm of delight and joy pur- in most times and themselves but vehicles for human well-beer than any he had imagined places, fueled by ing. In its stupendous success, has LGBTQ could exist.” young male sex- become a straitjacket? At the close of From his first arrival at ual exuberance. Goethe’s Faust, the Devil is distracted from school, Alexander had caught But such mingling taking Faust’s soul to Hell by the beau- the eye of Julian, another boy, of flavors goes ty of three boy angels. Last month, the a few years ahead. Julian’s against the grain Schwules Museum, Berlin’s LGBTQ archive footing at Eton is far less se- of LGBTQ’s pref- – oblivious to the Nazis’ burning of Magnus cure than Alexander’s. The erence for clear, Hirschfeld’s library in 1933 – turned over son of a Jewish scrap dealer abiding catego- a donor’s collection to the police because who’s scrimped to save up tui- ries. some of his erotica looked underage. Mean- tion fees, Julian is besotted by Call Me By Your Name was while, Thefederalist.com has just declared desire for Alexander – which he lover until graduation, when she a crossover hit with straight audiences it’s time to ditch Oscar Wilde as gay icon struggles to hide from his peers as much decamps for the foreign service. The grow- – a friend tells me he saw a middle-aged for his dalliances with London teenagers. as his mother’s Cockney accent. An act of ing bond between Damian and Alexander woman sobbing at one Manhattan show- Works like Alexander’s Choice and Call Me gallantry on Julian’s part sets the two boys takes them both unawares, before carrying ing – while garnering surprisingly lukewarm By Your Name push back against LGBTQ’s up as fast friends. Alexander’s readings of them to shores neither had ever imagined. reviews in gay papers. In the same vein, now straitened boundaries to point our gaze Greek history (particularly the male amours Marlowe’s finely-wrought human drama the British gay magazine QX panned Al- to broader human vistas. t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD april 26, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 17 Lively Arts // personalities

see it that way. Over the years, however, I same way. I love working with producers and amazing and talented songwriters and art- can see myself trying to change or conform writers who are going to push it and not let ists. In that way, it’s been a great gift. a little to bit to what would fit the industry. anything slide by. They’re going to be true to You have described your forthcoming Girl Talk After my second record, I felt, for myself, that the art and hold you accountable to making new album Girl I Used to Be, your first I had trouble getting my foot in somewhere. the best stuff you can make. In that way, the solo album since 2007’s The Girl Who By Gregg Shapiro I felt like I was one step behind what the in- Silent War was my favorite. Killed September, as “an actual complet- Singer / songwriter Garrison Starr, a Gram- dustry was doing. I was doing my own thing, Over the years, you’ve had good for- ed thought, sequenced as a storyline, my-nominee for her songwriting work on but not quite fitting in in some way. At least tune in terms of the placement of your with nine songs on it.” At a time when Margaret Cho’s American Myth album, is that’s how I feel about it looking back on it. songs on TV and in movies. What has the model for purchasing music is iTunes back in a big way. Girl I Used to Be, Starr’s The major-label thing was tough. I think I that kind of exposure meant to you as an singles at 99¢ a pop, please say some- highly-anticipated new was so unsure about who artist? thing about making a traditional album. album, is scheduled for I was at the time because I The first thing it meant to me in the be- To me, that’s what a record is. You lis- release later this year. An interview with was so confused from the ginning was that my songs can actually tened to a record from beginning to end. I Working once again with Garrison Starr rejection of the church. make me some money. I’ve never made any think of a record as a whole story. That’s producer Neilson Hubbard, That rejection was a direct money from all the records I’ve made. As how I used to listen to music. I got invested Starr recorded the album in Nashville over assault on who I am as a person. The in- I’ve been an indie artist in my later career, in the whole story. When Neilson (Hubbard) the course of five days. Before the album is dustry can be really harsh in that way, too. I’ve made some money. Songwriters aren’t and I made this record, we sequenced it like released, Starr is heading out on tour with When the industry decides that something making any money unless they’re fortunate it was a storybook. It has a first chapter and fellow Tennessean Lolo on the “Tennessee is no longer relevant, they just shut it down. enough to get a big hit; a top ten or some- a last chapter; it’s a piece of art. There’s a Queens” tour during the summer months. Are you saying that there you experi- thing that there’s not 14 writers on. I’d gotten through-line, a story. People can pick it apart I had the pleasure of catching up with her enced the similarities between the two? to a place where I was thinking, “How am I if they want to, but when you look at it as a shortly before the tour began. There were a lot of similar parallels be- ever going to move forward? When I start- whole picture it makes sense. That’s what Gregg Shapiro: In order to give read- tween what I was going through personal- ed diving into the placement world, I was a record means to me. To me, it should be ers some renewed perspective on your ly, being rejected by and kicked out of the burned out. I felt like I’d been rode hard and something from which you can take the piec- background, I want to begin by saying church for my sexuality, and having to deal put away wet in terms of the industry. I was es out, but when you put it to- that if anyone can attest to the changes in with that hurt and pain, and then moving into so down on myself. I didn’t know who I was the music world it would be you. 22 years an industry where everybody loves you and anymore. I’d tried every- ago, your major-label debut Eighteen then maybe you get lost in the shuffle. Even thing to put my career in Over Me was released on Geffen. From though it’s not personal, that’s what it feels a place where at least I there you moved to Virgin and then Van- like. When you don’t have a lot of tools for was happy and I wasn’t guard. Looking back on that part of your that kind of life stuff, that can be very toxic. happy. If I could find a career, please say something about that It’s devastating. way to have my songs experience and how it affected your work. Yes, devastating is definitely one of the make some money then Garrison Starr: I’ve thought about that things that it is. I could do my artist ca- a lot, actually. Especially in making this new In addition to being known as a solo reer any way that I want- record and feeling like I’ve gotten back to artist, you have also been involved in oth- ed. At the end of the day, myself, in a way. My favorite thing to do is to er musical projects, including the bands you have to have capi- pick up my acoustic guitar and play and sing. Plover (with Glen Phillips and Neilson tal, you have to put gas I think I started trying to divorce myself from Hubbard), Among the Oak & Ash, and the in the car [laughs]. I was the acoustic guitar as I moved from label to Silent War. just living hand to mouth. Garrison Starr label. When I got signed, and I had a lot of Of those three projects, my favorite one Nini Camps, a friend in buzz around me when I was first starting was the Silent War. I love Glen Phillips and New York, invited me there out, the Lilith Fair thing was big. The female Neilson Hubbard. I love that music and I to write with her. We were singer / songwriters had blossomed. When loved the process of making it. But I think at writing specifically for TV I came on the scene, it was just starting to the time we made Plover I was not in a very and film, which was really fade out. Alanis Morissette came around good place in my life. I wasn’t in a very col- cool. That was my first foray gether as and it was an edgier, more indie rock sound. laborative space. I’ve done so many collabo- into real constant collabo- a puzzle it makes a picture. It’s not Although my record was more rock than it rations since then. I’ve told Glen and Neilson ration. I’m grateful to Nini. I was feeling so just a bunch of random pieces that fit togeth- was Lisa Loeb / singer / songwriter at that that I want us to make another Plover record down on my career and questioning how to er. It’s a deliberate story. I personally love time because I was so angry [laughs], it was now that I’ve had so much more life experi- move forward. I had moved from LA, where I that about records. That’s my experience still based around me and the acoustic gui- ence and so much more creative experience was happy, to Nashville and I was unhappy, of listening to music. If you listen to (Neil tar. That was my primary vehicle for singing collaborating with other people. I love the confused and lost there. Nini and I made all Young’s) Harvest, you’re not just listening and playing. I’ve always worked out my is- way it sounds and I love what it represents these songs in New York. Her wife, Brooke, to one song from the album your entire life, sues in my songs. My story, growing up in for that time. It’s unlike anything I’ve ever who was at (record label) Razor & Tie and you’re probably listening to the whole re- the fundamentalist Christian church and not done. The Silent War is special to me be- is now at Concord, started placing all these cord; popping it on the record player and having anybody to talk to or share my pain cause Adrianne Gonzalez is both a peer and songs for us. That gave me the ability to step letting it play all the way through. It seems to or anxiety with, I started writing songs. As I a mentor to me in terms of songwriting and back and widen the lens and try and figure me that people are craving real stories and got into the music industry, the business of production. She’s so talented. She makes out what I wanted to do next as an artist. authenticity again. t music is focused on aesthetics and numbers me better. When we write together, I know After touring, banging my head against the Read the full interview at BaltimoreOUT- and other things that are contrary to creating she’s going to push me and we’re going to wall, working my ass off, and spinning my loud.com. Garrison Starr performs on May art and to being free and exploratory. When get something great. It’s always a fun chal- wheels, I needed to make some money to 8th at Milkboy in Philadelphia, and May 9th I look back over the years, I see myself kind lenge to work with Adrianne. She’s so de- keep going. That’s what TV and film gave at Jammin’ Java in Vienna, Virginia. of dumbing myself down to try and figure out voted to the craft, to making things as great me at first. Now, it’s given me a rich world what was going to work. At the time, I didn’t as they can be and I trust that. Neilson’s the in which I get to continue to collaborate with

18 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD april 26, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com out in the valley Hagerstown Hopes: Celebrates Success of First LGBTQ Prom by Brian George Hose by Benny’s Pub and Mary and Jodi Plitman, the community to know that they’re welcom- Planning an event is never easy. There are of- who baked dozens of beautiful and delicious ing of everyone and all families. Pride Night ten many details that need to be addressed, as cupcakes in every color imaginable. Out doubles as a fundraiser, but well as the individual needs and preferenc- only if you buy your ticket ($9) from es of each guest. a Hagerstown Hopes member! This After all, you is a Thirsty Thursday game, mean- want everyone ing beer specials all night long (21- to have a good plus with ID, please). Feel free to time. There are reach out to us through Facebook details, but you can expect to find auctions dietary restric- or HagerstownHopesMD.org to get and other interactive fundraising efforts all tions that need your tickets. day long. Stay up to date on our progress and to be considered, We’re also gearing up for plans by following us on Facebook. as well as dress Washington County Gives, a day- If you haven’t already, please visit Hager- code, parking, long fundraiser for nonprofits in stownHopesMD.org and sign up for our month- and transporta- Washington County, on May 7th. ly newsletter. Our goal is to serve the communi- tion. Sometimes Online donations are accepted ty and we can only do that if we know what the there’s even throughout the day and each or- community wants. The newsletter will keep you a theme that’s ganization is eligible for additional informed of what we’re up to and opportunities meant to tie all cash prizes. We’re still working out some to get involved. We hope to see you soon! t these elements to- A prom – DJ Sidekick (aka gether. And, during the planning of the event, It takes board member Tim there’s often an underlying fear that it won’t be a village Luipersbeck) provided fun, or worse, that nobody will show up. music while Pennsyl- These were some of the concerns we at vania-based photogra- Hagerstown Hopes have been quietly dealing pher Mrphab Photos snapped pictures of the with for the past few months. Since branch- party between traditional prom photo shoots ing into outreach, we’ve been working to pro- of friends and couples. vide safe, affirming spaces and activities for We were also fortunate to be graced with young people in our community. In planning royalty! Newly crowned Miss Gay Maryland America and Queen of Hagerstown Pride, Ch- “Over 70 young people asity Vain, joined King of Hagerstown Pride, Butch Kelley, to kick off what was for many from three states young people their first live drag show. Siren The Keystone Gay Rodeo Association is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt signed up to attend a Kelley performed a spot-on rendition of Britney non-pro t organization whose purpose is to promote the Spears classics before introducing two aspir- free prom for LGBTQIA ing teenage drag queens: Sage and Amara. country and western lifestyle and rodeo type events within The new girls impressed their peers with skills the LGBT community and their allies. youth and their allies greater than their young age would imply. Cha- at the Ramada Plaza on sity gave them the full treatment, helping them Do you enjoy any of the following activities? get ready for their performances and then fully •Social Events including country music and dancing. April 20th.” initiating them into drag society by challenging them to a quick change and impromptu group •Meeting new people and making new friends. our recent first annual prom, themed “True performance. All three slayed, and we thank •Helping other community organizations by volunteering and Colors,” we also had to take into consider- Chasity for taking Amara and Sage under her raising much needed funds. ation the many legal necessities required for wing and supporting them. We all look forward working with minors, which essentially dou- to seeing what they’ll accomplish next! •Trail riding, open horse shows, bles (or maybe triples) the work. Just because prom is over doesn’t mean rodeos and other horse related events. That’s why we’re happy to announce that we’ll be taking a break. We have our first Pride our firstL GBTQIA Prom was a huge success! Night Out at Municipal Stadium coming up on Over 70 young people from three states May 9th. Minor league baseball team the Hag- If so, then KSGRA membership may signed up to attend a free prom for LGBTQIA erstown Suns reached out to us and asked if be for you. To join visit our website youth and their allies at the Ramada Plaza we’d like to partner on a Pride event, an espe- on April 20th. Refreshments were provided cially meaningful gesture because they want at ksgra.org

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD april 26, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 19 out in the valley

this past November, I would visit her during it made me special. I had also learned that slow periods. In the five minutes I would be my beard quickly separated people who there, there would be at least a dozen var- care about character from those who care ious alarm sounds. Calls, tones from offi- Brian’s about appearances. Why give up such a Asher’s cers and engines in the area, alarm checks handy tool? from various buildings – all of it was noise Brain By this time, I was deeply attached to World that startled me, and there in my vicinity Brian George Hose my beard (pun intended). It had helped Asher Kennedy was a group of women as calm as can be, give me a new identity, and I liked that I while in my mind the world was ending with had a built-in visual aid when I talked to every alarm that sounded. Bye Bye others about gender issues. I also liked Behind-the- I have respect for all of those who put that it signaled to others that I wasn’t like the safety and security of others as the rea- Beardie everybody else and, therefore, I might be Scene son they get up in the morning, but I have able to help. a special heart for dispatchers. Personal If you knew me and had to point me out Then I saw a picture of myself at a lec- Heroes bias aside, there is something uniquely in a crowd, you would probably say, “He’s ture and my opinion changed. I saw all the strong about the ability to hear someone the guy with the beard.” If there was any long, scraggly hairs from a different angle My wife is the strongest person I know. If in an immense panic or danger and imme- confusion, you would probably clarify with, and realized that the thing that had per- you saw her out and about, she looks like diately switch to an accidental dial, often- “No, the guy with the beard. The haps been my biggest the most Clark Kent-esque person, glass- times never learning the outcome of the big one,” and everyone would asset was becoming my es included. Besides her well-documented previous call. Something often forgotten know who you were talking biggest liability. I knew love of sweets, her hobbies include naps, about the work that they do is that unlike about. That’s because over I needed to make a petting cats, and destroying anyone who police, EMS, and firefighters, dispatchers the last two years my beard change, and I was also faces her in Mario Kart. But behind that rarely see a happy ending, or an ending has become my calling card, afraid that making the sweet and innocent smile the thing that most people as- wrong change would lies an indestructible heart of sociate with me. undo all the progress steel and a temperament that It didn’t start out that way. I’d made and send me allows her to be screamed at I had maintained a relatively back to square one. all day long by people in the neat and professional-looking I quietly thought worst moments of their lives. beard for years because of about it for weeks and My wife is an emergency dis- dress codes and such. Then eventually reached a patch operator and in hon- my barber went out of business conclusion: my beard or of National Public Safety and I realized that I was also in needed to be tamed. Telecommunicator Week a unique time in my life, a time Deciding you need (April 14th to 20th) I want you with looser rules. It very well a trim isn’t usually a all to know how incredibly tough my wife at all. For all the pictures of people thank- may have been the last time in major life decision, and all of her co-dispatchers across this ing the firefighter who saved their beloved my life that I could grow it out, So but for me, it was. country are. family pet, there’s always an emergency at least until retirement. So, I decided to yesterday Was I ready to waste She had been working there, maybe dispatcher that makes sure that firefighters seize the moment and put down my trim- two years’ growth on three months when there was a bad wreck knew where they were going. mers. a whim? Was the risk of losing or changing on the interstate that runs right through our Weeks turned into months and sud- my identity worth it? Was I ready to end the county. It was a massive one, with multi- “There was an OnStar denly I realized I had a big, red, glorious Big Beard chapter of my life? ple people needing to be flown to a nearby Viking beard. As I became involved with I scheduled my appointment without trauma center. That was the day that she call where she had to knowing what I wanted. While I deliberated learned OnStar-equipped cars autodial the listen to what ended up “I had so loved the Big the decision, I attended to my beard buck- nearest 911 center when there’s a colli- et list. I braided it, decorated it – all the sion. She learned it because there was an being a person’s final Beard chapter of my life things people said I should try that I nev- OnStar call where she had to listen to what er got around to doing. And I took a lot of ended up being a person’s final moments. moments.” that staying in it was pictures, knowing it would likely be years I think about her telling me that often. That preventing me from before the next Big Beard chapter begins. or the day she was working a shift when a We have a saying when she is on an Now I write as a man with a significant- mother shot her own children, leaving the overnight rotation, or picks up overtime: moving forward.” ly smaller but still substantial beard. I real- older one alive to call for help while she that she is keeping me safe while I’m sleep- ized I had so loved the Big Beard chapter fled the scene. Children are the worst to ing. She does not just keep me safe then. Hagerstown Hopes and began working in of my life that staying in it was preventing have to take calls from – she has told me She makes sure every single person in our community outreach, I also became aware me from moving forward. The only thing I that a plethora of times. A combination of area has someone on the other end of the that my beard was the feature that every- really lost was a few inches of beard, but their inability to adequately explain what is line if they need it. She and her co-workers one remembered about me. This was new the lessons I learned along the way will happening, and the sheer human response never want to have to hear our voices, but for me, a fairly average looking guy with stay with me forever. And, even though to a child speaking with panic or pain. And without them we would be helpless, and no distinctive traits apart from my glasses. my beard isn’t quite as remarkable now as yet the second that call ends, she is on because of them I rest easy at night. To Alli I liked it, so I let my beard keep growing. it once was, I know that in a way it’s still the phone with the next one. Some days and all the dispatchers at Berkeley County Not everyone loved it, though. Compar- there, just waiting for its next chapter to it takes me a couple hours to feel even- and every single center across this coun- isons were made to ZZ Top and the cast of begin. t keeled after a guest is grumpy, whether it try: thank you. You all are the thin gold line Duck Dynasty, and not always in a friendly is directed at me or not. that tethers us to safety. t way. Still, I kept it because it was mine and Before they opened their new center

20 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD april 26, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com out in the valley

me as a small baby. So, although we now it wasn’t conflicting for her. But, at some as I am experiencing some of the heart- feel comfortable hugging when we visit to- point it will be. She will reach a point where break this adoption has caused throughout gether, it wasn’t that great OMG moment she will want to know more information our family, even though we’ve had custody that is so popular with reunion shows on TV. about her birthparents and her history. In since shortly after her birth. Parenting Actually, those moments can make me some ways, this one will be easier, as she So, officially welcome to the family OUTloud cringe sometimes. I have observed that started out as my cousin. I know much of Kassandra Casey Crenshaw. And, hugs to t Rev. Kelly Crenshaw people often build up the expectations of the history. In other ways, it will be harder all those who love her. those moments until they are so emotionally charged that they can get out of hand. Is it exciting to find a long lost family mem- In Praise of ber? Absolutely! But, we have to remember that there are reasons the adoption placement took place. Maybe, it was like Adoption my birthmother’s situation and it was a choice. Maybe, Child Protective Services Adoption! The word brings up so many took the choice away from all parties and thoughts, emotions, and opinions. As an declared the parents unfit and incapable of adopted person, with many adopted chil- raising a child. Maybe the father was in- dren, I think I’ve seen volved in the pregnancy. Maybe, just about all of the sides he walked away. Any way you look to domestic (US only) The worst at it, however, a choice was made. adoption. I was adopted Reunions can be difficult. through the Children’s solution, Years ago, I watched a young Home Society in Virginia. woman reunite with the birthmoth- My birthmother knew that except for all er who decided that adoption was she did not want to raise the best avenue for her. The birth- a child on her own, so I the others mother made that decision under was an intentional place- pressure from family members ment. The rules at the and came to regret her decision. time required that I live with my birthmother For her, the reunion was filled with her joy for a month, then live in foster care for two at finding her baby girl and reestablish- months prior to moving in with my adoptive ing their relationship. For the daughter, family. I’ve met my birthmother. She still it was a time to discover answers to life- lives in the county where long questions and learn a bit of her I was born. My birthfather genetic history. For both, it turned out is out there somewhere. I to be a disappointment. The birth- have not located him. mother put unrealistic expectations To build our family, we on the child. She wanted to dress her adopted privately, through in clothing that wasn’t the daughter’s private agencies, through taste and was insulted when her of- the foster care system, fers weren’t well received. She ex- and across state lines. We pected the daughter to help take care adopted newborns and of younger siblings when she visited. teenagers. We paid steep And, she wanted to set the daughter agency fees and made ma- up in a career in her area of the coun- jor renovations to our home try. The daughter, now grown, already at the request of state had her life on track. She had her own agencies. When we adopted a large sib- sense of style that she had evolved over ling group of teenagers, we had to have the years. She had great parents that she a child psychologist stay in our home for loved and didn’t want to leave. The birth- over a week while she evaluated our fam- mother was clingy. The daughter started ily and our parenting style. We even had pushing her away as she felt smothered. to request a Congressional Inquiry into an Both struggled to find an arrangement that adoption situation that wasn’t moving at worked for them. the rate it should have been moving. But, what about the adoption itself? One of my favorite things to see in an As one set of parents celebrate an addi- adoption situation is how reunions are han- tion to the family, other parents and their dled. I found my birthmother when I was in extended family mourn the loss. Even the my mid-thirties. She’s a great woman and children, if they’re older, can be conflicted we quickly discovered we had a lot in com- about what adoption means to them. 240-420-2180 mon. However, when we first met in person, We finalized our little’s girl’s adoption we both felt awkward hugging. We didn’t this month, making her legally our child know each other. I had no memory of her and changing her name. She’s too young whatsoever and she only had memories of to understand what actually happened, so BALTIMORE OUTLOUD april 26, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 21 DINING OUT dining out

bar. I generally don’t care for lamb due to the occasional gaminess, but this stew was tender with a simple, deliciously rus- tic flavor that enhanced the mushrooms Munch and other vegetables in the mix. As for the Steak Tartare, this is the best I have On This ever had in my life. My first introduction Michael Ritmiller to this dish was at Anthony Bourdain’s • Serving Brunch on Sundays! Les Halles. I had no clue at the time I was ordering “raw” meat. (I thought the waiter • Now open for lunch Bistrot du Coin said he doesn’t like “red” meat.) The en- at 12 p.m. on Saturdays 1738 Connecticut Avenue NW, trée of raw meat was prepared tableside in Washington DC a grand fashion intended for royalty. Since • Penguin Pils now available 202-234-6969 then, no other restaurant has come close in 16oz cans! Bistrotducoin.com to matching this level of perfection. While Bistro du Coin plates it and serves it with- Introducing Lumen French cuisine deserves its own place on out fanfare (a totally unnecessary step), Our new beer brewed speci cally the food pyramid. Ranging from healthy to the combination of ingredients was like dangerously hearty, the often-savory fla- Jesus Christ rising on Easter Sunday. The for Light City! vors satisfy the soul in ways hard to find raw beef tasted like it was freshly cut off Late Night Happy Hour on elsewhere. Some French chefs prefer to the cow. The other ingredients mixed with SERVES BREAKFAST, LUNCH, DINNER, Tuesday, Wednesday, rely on very little seasonings, sometimes the beef produced an orgy of flavors that COFFEE AND DRINKS! resulting in a bland experience. I prefer my continued to explode in my mouth. and Thursday Evenings! Hours comfort food to have a bolder presence. If you are bored with the same menu Tues. -Fri. 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Get house draft beer for $3.75 Sat. 10 a.m. –to 9 p.m. After hearing endearing murmuring from options around you, I strongly suggest Sun. 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. DC locals, I was eager to try Bistrot du venturing to Bistro du Coin to break up the from 11 p.m. to close Coin in the heart of Dupont Circle. monotony. You will surely find an eclectic 10 Art Museum Drive Walking into this classically quirky variety of options regardless of what you 1106 North Charles Street Baltimore, MD 21218 restaurant, I was immediately greeted like. t Baltimore, MD 21201 410-889-3399 410-547-6925 • thebrewersart.com gertrudesbaltimore.com with a swath of smells that yanked you on the nose, pulling you further into the experience. Wine and laughter flowed throughout. The sizable American Classics & menu covered French basics and much more. Authentic Indian Cuisine I started with the French Onion soup. The broth tasted like rich, homemade beef bones simmered for hours with a hint of brandy. The perfectly crisped layer of cheese on top made for a fun finger food to satisfy •Saturday and Sunday Brunch 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. my inner child. •Daily Lunch and Dinner •Dine-in or carry-out We next tried the Moule Severing the Community for 27 years! à la Catalan, one of the dozen mussel dishes on the menu. While each of the options read like a sultry novel of ingredients, this particular dish in a light broth of white wine with vegetables was its own unique version of surf ‘n’ turf flavored with chorizo. And yes. It is acceptable to use your empty shells to lap up the flavorful broth. Don’t let anyone tell tambersrestaurant.com • 410-243-5777 you otherwise. No one needs 3327 Saint Paul Street. Baltimore, MD 21218 that kind of negativity. The final course of Na- (at 34th Street, across from Union Memorial ) varin D’Agneau (lamb stew) Délicieux jusqu’au and Steak Tartare raised the dernier morceau!

22 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD april 26, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com your money // real estate

often more complex than it is given cred- The More you it for. Attracting the right people is just the Know About first step. Ensuring the right people are paid right, and recognizing what new recruits Business potentially bring to the table, is vital. This Richard Finger means we need to find innovative ways to attract and reward. We tend to think pure- ly in terms of dollars in this respect, but a reward may not necessarily take this form, considering the values of the organization Proactive HR and the people concerned. A proactive HR team will help you identify the right approach as well as the right package, fulfill- There is a big difference between good HR ing the double role of successful recruiter AVAILABLE FOR RENT! and proactive HR – the difference between and public relations expert by improving HR being important versus worth its weight brand reputation. Charles St. – 2nd Floor in gold. We tend to think of HR as practical Oftentimes HR is on the forefront of and reactive to standard issues. Recruit- incorporating change into an organization. ment, retention, employee relations issues For example, when a new law comes into Newly renovated, 2BR/1BA, all new (discipline, grievances), pay and benefits, all effect, such as the Maryland Healthy Work- spring to mind. Certainly, getting these fun- ing Families Act. A proactive HR depart- appliances, includes heat & water. damentals right is always critical. ment will take the lead Walking distance to MICA, UB, Light But proactive HR requires a on this, anticipating the deeper level of understanding and Human change, and figuring out Rail, Penn Station & Baltimore Eagle. a more collaborative approach to how to respond and ad- $795/mo plus security deposit. these issues. The positive impact Resources: it’s minister the new devel- it can have on your business is opment, protecting the 866-474-7000 significant. a lot more than organization’s reputation HR policies and procedures for being forward-think- often times seem fairly black-and- just people and ing, fair, and compliant. white, while business certainly processes! It’s not just about han- is not. Business is complex and dling grievances when evolving, and its success de- they occur as a result pends on many factors. That means that HR of the legal change – it’s about making needs to have a deep level of understanding sure those situations never arise because of its value chain – what are the inputs and things were handled and communicated outputs that make the business tick. This well in advance. includes understanding business priorities The landscape of business has changed and values, and then ensuring that all em- so dramatically over the past few years. ployee-related practices relate to these and Just being good enough is not enough any- contribute to achieving the goals of the or- more. Being responsive just won’t cut it! For ganization. HR, this means being proactive, being in- Earlier, I referenced the practical side of novative and efficient, being visionary. This HR, which includes ensuring processes are approach could be the difference between a in place, such as: onboarding new hires and good business and great business. t performance reviews; a system recruitment that is well managed to the extent that the right skills and abilities are captured when selecting new staff; ensuring interviews are fair, legal, and well managed; and the cre- ation of policies and procedures that reflect the company’s vision and values. A proactive HR team will also ensure that all of the above processes are aligned to what the business is seeking to achieve both now and in the future. A proactive HR team will consider longer term resource and financial planning when bringing on new talent. Hav- ing a proactive team is all about providing a secondary layer of depth to the top level process. Recruitment is always important but

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD april 26, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 23 Quality of life

• An official pronouncement of mar- Getting the riage by your officiant. • A kiss, symbolic here in much the Wedding same way a wax seal is traditionally used to seal an important letter. You Want • A blessing, often but not always spir- The Little Corner Bar with a Great Big Heart! David Egan itually focused. • The recessional, again in a specific order and often including music. 205 West Read Street “Corner of Read and Park” Do you need to include all of these Make Your things in your wedding ceremony? Of course not. What you and your beloved 410-225-3100 • ATM Available Ceremony believe regarding spirituality, among other things, will inform your use or not of each Special element, and may call for specific form and language to be used. I encourage you to Your wedding ceremony bares your heart give each element careful consideration. and soul to the people you love and who See what meaning each has or could have love you, inviting them into your marriage for you and your family and friends, and to support you and your beloved in your how including or excluding that element journey together. Your ceremony cele- affects the contextual and physical flow of brates what you believe about marriage your ceremony. and proclaims those things that are essen- There are other elements that can add tial to your marriage. It is your public dec- meaning to your ceremony. They include laration of your love and devotion to your words of presentation (“who presents partner. this person to be married?”), the tying of Memorable ceremonies are often rich cords about your wrists from the hand- with symbolism. The act of fasting tradi- walking through your tion, jumping assembled guests to the broom, a special place, the wine and order of that proces- sand rituals, sion, the blessing and breaking a exchange of rings, the glass, light- kiss – these things and ing a unity more help seal the ex- candle, and perience in the hearts calling the and minds of all pres- quarters, to ent. name a few. Here’s a good and The look time-tested framework and feel of for your ceremony: your wed- • A processional into ding cere- the wedding space by mony should reflect who you are as a the key participants in the ceremony, in a couple. I remember someone describing deliberate order. The processional often good wedding ceremonies as being seri- includes music. ous without being somber. I love that. We • Words of invocation, introduction, can be serious about being joyful! Add 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and welcome from the person conducting some color, wear something that makes the ceremony. you feel special, and play the music that • A declaration of intent that states says “This is the soundtrack of our love!” BESTBEST PRICESPRICES ININ TOWNTOWN what you are about to do. This is the part Your wedding ceremony is a great op- where the officiant asks if you will do those portunity to create a meaningful, shared things and you answer by saying, “I do.” experience that will carry you into your • Some number of readings, usually marriage with joy and intention, and with two or three, from texts that you hold sa- the enthusiastic support of your family and cred in their meaning regarding marriage. friends. Give it your good and well-consid- • A short sermon, remarks, or address ered attention, and make it special. t LookLook aheadahead forfor thethe by the officiant about marriage in general David L. Egan is the proprietor and stew- and yours in particular. ard of Chase Court, a wedding and event ven- • A recitation of your promises – your ue in downtown Baltimore. Visit Chasecourt. vows – to each other. com, and follow ChaseCourtWeddingVenue BackBack BarBar toto reopenreopen • The exchange of rings. on Instagram and Facebook.

24 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD april 26, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com leather

formed to serve as a bridge between men els in shoulder pads and football pants with always been about brotherhood, now it is of color and the greater leather commu- the tag line “Get in gear!” MAL attracts lots finally about family. nity. The club is called ONYX and today of young people who simply cannot afford As I navigated my way through the has nine chapters across the country and $300 leather pants and $200 leather shirts. leather community in the past 35 years, Leather with countless leather titleholders as mem- (I’ve often used my favorite Dolly Parton I have learned a lot. Many years ago, I bers and extremely popular fundraisers, quote: “It cost a lot of money to look this learned that the leather community had a Line including big events at both Internation- cheap!”) Young people have embraced the credo: Safe, sane, and consensual. There Rodney Burger al Mr. Leather Weekend and Mid-Atlantic spandex wrestling singlets, jogging shorts has been lots of discussion regarding Leather Weekend, is a force to be reck- with harnesses, and all kinds of gear that consent in our community lately. I have oned with. Their members also know the would have gotten them tossed out of the even seen a poster at an event that stat- Navigating the SM true meaning of brotherhood. I have never Gallery in 1984. It is no longer wrong. ed: Wearing gear does not constitute con- felt unwelcomed at one of their parties or I have recently witnessed an even sent. For example, just because a man is Community in a events. bigger wave of acceptance. It seems that wearing a jockstrap that is not an open I also recently wrote an article about 2019 is the year of gender non-conforming invitation to grab his ass. No one thought the ever-growing leather puppy commu- leather titles that are open to any person about those things in 1984. It is a new nity. When I posted a link to that column in the leather community regardless of sex world. As I stated in my last article, in this on Facebook another friend commented, or gender expression. Our area recently world of social media postings consent PC World “I guess we have to embrace all the kinks sashed MX Virginia Leather and Northeast even extends to taking and posting pic- I had another birthday last week. When now!” You know what? You don’t have to Person of Leather. Again, there are going tures at leather events on Facebook and you get to the age where you have more embrace them, you don’t have to do them, to be those who call it PC bullshit, I call it such. It is clear some people still do not past than future, you spend lots of time you don’t even have to like them – but making a place for everyone at the table. grasp this concept. I recently saw a video looking back. For me life began in 1984 you damn well better respect them. The The leather community has of the jockstrap pool party when I moved to Baltimore and walked modern leather com- at Bears, Bikers & May- into my first leather bar. It was the Gal- munity has embraced hem on Facebook. It was lery One bar at 1735 Maryland Avenue. It all kinds of fetishes. a scan of the whole pool was a dress code leather bar in 1984. It is In my 1984 leather bar area filled with people in still there and is still a gay bar, but it has there were two types jocks. Did the person who changed. The whole leather community of dress: black leather posted it have the con- has changed. and wrong. You could sent of all the people in My first leather bar was a smoky, tes- conform to the uniform the video? I hope every- tosterone-filled world. The Gallery had a of black leather – jack- one in that video still has popular female bartender, but no female ets, vests, jeans, chaps, a job today. Maybe those customers. This leather community was a etc. – or you could just putting on events should man’s world. In fact the DC Eagle’s motto be wrong. Now at leather post signs. Consent ex- for many years was: If you’re man enough. events you see not only tends to taking pictures. I’ve always been proud to report that the leather in every color, Yes, I have seen Baltimore Eagle had the first Ms. Eagle ti- but also rubber, spandex, many changes in the tleholder in 1992. (The DC Eagle sashed sports gear, uniforms, leather communi- the first Ms. DC Eagle in 2018.) I’ve never and even fur. I’ve always ty, and it continues to been uncomfortable seeing leather wom- applauded the Centaur evolve. I must say that an at leather events. In fact, I’ve am very MC for their advertising I am pleased with these proud to call many of the great woman in campaign for Mid-Atlantic changes. There is one our leather community my friends. When I Leather Weekend 2008. change that I do not posted a picture of the Mr. and Ms. DC Ea- It featured a picture of a want to see. It involves gle Contest on my Facebook page in No- shirtless Mr. Mid-Atlantic two of my least favorite vember one of my friends commented, “I Leather 2007 Gary Samu- Leather in the words. (No, not “last can do without the women.” Maybe old days! call.”) I’m talking about “fam- he can do without the woman, but ily-friendly.” The leather com- the leather community can’t. They munity was never meant to are stepping up and keeping the be mainstream. I cringe when leather community going. I see articles with titles like The leather community that I “Area Mother Horrified by San discovered many years ago was Francisco’s Folsom Street not only all male, for the most Fair.” It is wonderful that part is was also all white. The only leather events now embrace person of color I recall seeing at everyone- but let’s keep it 18 the Gallery in those days was Mr. and over. We do not need to Maryland Leather 1993 Tony Hash. conform to please the Chris- Yes, the third Mr. Maryland Leather tian right or the soccer moms. title went to a very charming Afri- Take your children to see wa- can-American man. He was the first ter parks not water sports! leather titleholder I ever met. He is The leather community does no longer with us, but he was a real not have to be that politically t pioneer. In 1995 a leather club was correct! BALTIMORE OUTLOUD april 26, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 25 410-539-4850 227227 W.W. ChaseChase StSt

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Bar 704 ASBURY PARK, NEW JERSEY 704 N 3rd Street Georgies Bar Harrisburg, PA 812 5th Avenue 717-234-4228 Asbury Park NJ 07712 BALTIMORE, MARYLAND 732-988-1220 Station North Arts Cafe Gallery The Brownstone Lounge Club 1722 1816 North Charles Street 412 Forester Street Paradise 1722 North Charles Street 410-625-6440 • stationnortharts.com Harrisburg, PA 17102 10 Asbury Avenue 410-727-7431 • club1722.com SteamPunk Alley 717-234-7009 Asbury Park, NJ 07712 732-988-6663 Club Bunns 227 W. Chase Street • 410-539-4806 REHOBOTH BEACH, DELAWARE 608 W. Lexington Street • 410-234-2866 The Rowan Tree Blue Moon The Asbury Drinkery 1633 South Charles Street 35 Baltimore Avenue 210 5th Avenue 203-207 W, Read Street • 410-225-3100 410-468-0550 • therowantree.net Rehoboth Beach, DE Asbury Park, NJ 07712 302-227-6515 • bluemoonrehoboth.com Hotel Tides The Eagle MARYLAND 408 7th Avenue 2022 North Charles Street The Lodge Lounge & Dance Club The Purple Parrot Asbury Park, NJ 07712 410-200-9858 • thebaltimoreeagle.com 21614 National Pike 247 Rehoboth Avenue Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971 • 302-226-1139 732-897-7744 The Gallery Boonsboro, MD 21713 1735 Maryland Avenue • 410-539-6965 301-591-4434 Rigby’s Bar & Grill 404 Rehoboth Avenue Grand Central HARRISBURG, PENNSYLVANIA Rehoboth Beach, DE 1001-1003 North Charles Street Stallions 302-227-6080 • rigbysbarandgrill.com 410-752-7133 • centralstationpub.com 706 N 3rd Street Iguana Grill Leon’s Harrisburg, PA 717-232-3060 • stallionsclub.com 52 Baltimore Avenue 870 Park Avenue • 410-539-4993 Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971 Mixer’s 302-227-0948 • iguanagrill.com 6037 Belair Road • 410-599-1952

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD april 26, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 27 T:9.875” T:9.6”

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Find yourself at xfi nity.com/LGBTQ DIV031-Q4-NED-A10-V1

28 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD april 26, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com

CLIENT COMCAST FILE NAME: CMCIN18016M20_9.875x9.6_BaltimoreOUTLoud_v02.indd APPROVAL JOB NUMBER CMCIN18016M20 DESCRIPTION: DIV031-Q4-NED-A10-V1 BILL TO NUMBER CMCIN18016 COLORS: CMYK PROOFREADER GRAPHIC ARTIST Johnny Villalobos NOTES: NONE STUDIO DIRECTOR DATE 9-26-2018 11:55 AM FONTS: XFINITY Standard TT (Italic, Bold Italic, Light, Bold, Regular) TRAFFIC REVISION 2 IMAGES: 41668_GettyImages-852949206_Clutch.jpg (CMYK; 493 ppi; 60.76%), PAGE 1 CMCIN18016_Tablet_v01.psd (CMYK; 975 ppi; 7.38%), Comcast_S_4C_GRAY.eps PRODUCTION PUB Baltimore OUTLoud (9.38%), Pride_2018_CMYK.ai (29.79%) ART DIRECTOR BLEED None COPYWRITER TRIM 9.875” x 9.6” LIVE 9.375” x 9.1” ASSOC CREATIVE DIR SCALE 100% CREATIVE DIRECTOR PRINTOUT 100%

233 N. MICHIGAN AVE. SUITE 2900, CHICAGO, IL 60601, P:312.297.9600 60601, IL CHICAGO, SUITE 2900, AVE. MICHIGAN 233 N. ACCOUNT MANAGER BURRELL MECHANICAL BURRELL